Maintaining compliant smoke alarm systems is a key responsibility for rental property management. Recent updates to regulations for new builds, along with existing rules for rental properties, provide clear guidelines for landlords. These ensure properties meet safety standards and adhere to tenancy laws, helping to avoid potential penalties.
Smoke Alarm Requirements for New Builds
For new builds and major renovations, new rules apply from 1 November 2024 with regard to the type and placement of smoke alarms.
From November 2024, all new homes are required to have interconnected smoke alarms in every new bedroom and living space, on every level of a new build home. Where a kitchen is separated from living spaces and hallways by closable doors, an alarm suitable for kitchens (which may be a heat alarm) must be installed in the kitchen.
This means when one alarm goes off, they all go off, providing more comprehensive coverage and giving occupants the best possible chance to react in an emergency. This requirement applies to houses built after the most recent updates to the Building Code and reflects a growing awareness of fire safety.
Smoke Alarm Compliance for Rentals
For all rental properties, not just new builds, smoke alarms have been mandatory under tenancy law since July 2016.
Landlords are required to ensure that:
- There is at least one smoke alarm within 3 metres of each bedroom door, and at least one smoke alarm on each storey of the house.
- Smoke alarms must be photoelectric and have a battery life of at least 8 years, or be hardwired.
- Landlords must replace smoke alarms at the end of their life and test them annually, ensuring they remain in good working order for tenants.
- The expiry date of the alarm must be on the alarm
Tenants are also responsible for replacing the batteries in the smoke alarms (unless they are hardwired or long-life) during the tenancy and are encouraged to report any issues to the landlord immediately.
Non-Compliance and Penalties
Failing to comply with these smoke alarm requirements can have serious financial implications for landlords. Tenancy law is clear about the penalties for non-compliance, and landlords could face fines of up to $7200 for failing to meet their obligations. Additionally, landlords are responsible for rectifying any issues brought to their attention by tenants, including faulty or missing smoke alarms. Tenants can be held liable for removing or tampering with smoke alarms.
If tenants don’t meet their obligations they could face financial penalties of up to $4,000.
How Quinovic Can Help
At Quinovic, we recognise that keeping up with these regulations can be a challenge for landlords, especially as rules evolve. Our property managers have a thorough knowledge of tenancy law, ensuring that your property stays compliant. We manage everything from regular smoke alarm testing to timely replacements, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your property meets the latest safety standards.
If you have any questions about the new smoke alarm rules for new builds or your existing rental property,
get in touch with Quinovic today. We're here to make property management easier, more efficient, and compliant with all the latest regulations.
