At DC Smoke, we specialise in ensuring that the properties you manage meet the rigorous safety standards set by the latest smoke alarm legislation. We offer a comprehensive service of inspection, new smoke alarm upgrades, and smoke alarm compliance certificate (QLD 2022) to make. Our goal is to provide clarity and peace of mind to sales agents, landlords, and property managers, safeguarding both your legal responsibilities and the lives of tenants.
New legislation that came into effect in 2022 mandates that all Queensland Rental properties must have smoke alarms installed in a way that meets new specific standards. These alarms are required to be photoelectric to detect smouldering fires; and interconnected, ensuring that if one alarm sounds, all alarms in the property do likewise, providing quicker alerts and better protection.
Here is more information on what these new laws mandate. For the complete legislation read the QFES info sheet.
Be photoelectric and comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014.
Not contain an ionisation sensor.
Be interconnected within the property.
Be less than 10 years old and function correctly when tested.
Be hardwired or powered by a non-removable 10-year old battery
Smoke alarms are a crucial line of defence against fire hazards, designed to provide early warnings to give occupants enough time to evacuate and save lives.
For rental properties, adhering to smoke alarm compliance isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a vital aspect of tenant safety. Queensland’s new smoke alarm regulations are stringent, requiring all rental properties to have functioning smoke alarms that meet specific standards.
This means every rental property or property sold after this time should now be equipped with the required type of smoke alarms, appropriately installed and regularly maintained.
However only 60% of rental properties had these interconnected smoke alarms installed in 2023. The penalty for QLD landlords who don’t comply is a $774 fine or 5 penalty units.
Within 30 days of the start of a tenancy, it is the responsibility of the landlords to test and clean every smoke alarm in the dwelling. However landlords often expect this to be completed by their property manager. You can outsource this responsibility to us. We provide a professional service that meets these requirements and provide a ‘certificate of compliance’ that you can present as proof of service.
This initial check is crucial to confirm all alarms are in working order. After these 30 days, it is on the tenant to test and clean each smoke alarm at least once every year throughout the tenancy, with the property manager overseeing and documenting compliance.
Failure to comply with smoke alarm regulations can lead to severe consequences, not just legal repercussions but real risks to tenant safety. This is why it’s important for property managers to move away from manual tracking methods like spreadsheets, and instead, utilise digital compliance tracking systems—which keeps all your scheduling and documentation for smoke alarm compliance in one place. These systems help prevent oversights and ensure that no property falls through the cracks.
Navigating the complexities of smoke alarm compliance and safety can be daunting. Our certified electricians and office team at DC Smoke offer expert services in installation, maintenance, and compliance checks; ensuring your properties are not only compliant but equipped with the best protection against fire risks.
Keep on top of ongoing safety for your tenants with our annual service subscription. This includes a detailed inspection, testing, and necessary replacements or upgrades to keep your smoke alarms in peak condition.
Ensuring smoke alarm compliance in rental properties is a critical responsibility for Queensland landlords and property managers. By partnering with DC Smoke, you ensure that your properties meet all legal requirements and provide a safe living environment for your tenants. For more information or to schedule a service, please contact us today.
Remember, compliance is not just about meeting legal standards—it’s about ensuring safety and preventing tragedies. Trust DC Smoke to help you achieve and maintain this vital compliance.
