It’s an exciting moment when you’re about to sign a contract to buy your dream home; the possibilities for this new chapter in your life will feel limitless.
Before walking this path, though, a few serious administrative tasks must be completed. Perhaps one that can be overlooked is checking the smoke alarms on the property.
While the regulations differ slightly in each state, we can all agree that smoke alarms save lives no matter where you live.
As an experienced agency, we always advise clients selling a house to ensure compliance before putting the property on the market.
Those selling apartments or townhouses should assume responsibility for the smoke alarms inside their homes but must rely on the due diligence of the strata committee in common areas.
We believe all new owners should check their smoke alarms in the first few days of moving in. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and you may even wish to replace them with new ones regardless of their compliance status.
Below, we’ve listed everything you need to know about domestic smoke alarms.
Compliance rules
These differ in every state. Queensland has a reputation for the strictest regulations and offers excellent guidance for everyone. For example, every bedroom and connecting hallway must have a smoke detector. It insists on the AS 3786-2014 standard, and alarms should be hard-wired into the mains or powered by a 10-year lithium battery.
National approach
Smoke alarms also fall under the National Construction Code (NCC), which promotes AS 3786:2014 as the minimum standard. It specifies acceptable power supply alternatives, indicator lights and manufacturing testing requirements. Rules around installation and servicing are state-based and not covered.
Retrospective rules
The state rules around smoke detectors are retrospective, which means older homes must comply. Your Federation masterpiece must comply even though it’s more than 100 years old.
Storey time
Smoke alarms are mandatory on any storey with a bedroom and any hallways that lead to a bedroom. In Victoria, an alarm is required on every level regardless of whether there’s a bedroom.
Inter-connection
Where more than one alarm is installed, each must be inter-connected under the NCC rules. When one goes off, so do the other(s).
Ideal set-up
We like the approach of Fire and Rescue NSW, which recommends installing interconnected smoke detectors in every bedroom, living space (including hallways and stairways) and garage. That pretty much covers everything.
Rip and replace
The cost of new alarms range from $35 to $100 per unit, and some retailers offer sets of seven for around $500. Alarms must be hard-wired into the mains by a licensed electrician. Discuss your plans before buying anything. A good electrician will tell you how many smoke detectors are needed and offer to make the purchase for you.
Common error
Don’t install an alarm too close to the kitchen or bathroom, as smoke or steam can set it off.