Our Brisbane based electrical contractors at Fixzit answer some questions about smoke alarm legislation and requirements for homes in Queensland, during the season where there is a heightened risk of fires from household heating. Read on to find out you can stay protected and keep for your family safe

Do Smoke Alarms Save Lives?

Working smoke alarms alert of a fire in the home when people are sleeping and help them to escape unharmed. Since the window of opportunity to escape a burning house is only around 3 minutes, smoke alarms can alert people early of a fire while there is still enough. Click here for real life example from the NSW fire department where smoke alarms have been credited for saving the lives of occupants of burning buildings.

How many smoke alarms do I need in my home?

As every house is different in size and layout the requirements differ, however at a minimum there needs to be at least one smoke alarm located near sleeping areas and if sleeping areas are separated additional alarms are required adjacent to additional sleeping areas. Multi-level homes need additional smoke alarms on each floor.

Are there any laws regarding what type of alarm are installed?

There is no law requiring smoke alarms to be either hardwired or battery operated, however smoke alarms need to have a self-test function. Battery operated smoke alarms will also require battery replacement on a regular basis. Smoke alarms older than 10 years should be replaced.

What if my home doesn’t have any smoke alarms?

If you own the home you are legally required to install smoke alarms you’ll need to have at least one smoke alarm fitted and installed by law. Battery operated devices can be installed yourself, but for hardwired systems you’ll need the help of an electrician. The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service recommend the use of hardwired photoelectric alarms which can ‘see’ smoke particles the most effectively and are not reliant on batteries which means they offer some of the best protection available. If you are renting, your landlord and property manager are legally obligated to provide smoke alarms in all rental properties in Queensland. New homes built after 1997 must have smoke alarms installed as standard during the build.

As well as a comprehensive suite of household electrical work, the Fixzit team can make your home legally comply with Queensland smoke alarm laws by installing smoke alarm systems in your home. Visit the QFRS website for more information about community safety and using and maintaining smoke alarms in the home.