Over the past 12 months, we have created multiple articles to inform our clients on the changes to the Queensland Smoke Alarm Legislation.
In todays article, we will be talking specifically about the legislation specific for owner occupiers. For owner occupiers, there are two dates for legislation changes to be aware of.
The first date is 1 January 2017. Even though this date has passed, it will make sense when you read the below.
- From 1 January 2017, existing smoke alarms manufactured more than 10 years ago must be replaced with photoelectric smoke alarms which comply with Australian Standards 3786-2014. The manufacture date should be stamped on the back of the smoke alarm.
- If you test your smoke alarm and it does not operate, it must be replaced immediately.
- If you have an existing hardwired smoke alarm that needs replacement, it must be replaced with a hardwired photoelectric smoke alarm.
The second date to be aware of is 1 January 2027.
- From this date, all existing private homes, townhouses and units will require photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms.
- The new legislation requires smoke alarms to be installed in the following locations:
- On each storey
- In each bedroom
- In hallways that connect bedrooms and the rest of the dwelling
- If there is no hallway, between the bedroom and other parts of the storey
Technical details
The QFES states that alarms must:
- be photoelectric and comply with Australian Standards 3786 – 2014
- not also contain an ionisation sensor; and
- Be less than 10 years old; and
- operate when tested; and
- be interconnected with every other ‘required’ smoke alarm in the dwelling so all activate together.
At Star BMS we are experts in Body Corporate. We can ensure your entire scheme is compliant with the new legislation. Ensure your family and assets are protected by contacting the team at Star BMS today.
