Where Do Smoke Alarms Need To Be Installed In NSW?

Functional smoke alarms aren't just lifesavers in an emergency - they're also a legal requirement in NSW. If you rent out a property or are a tenant, it's crucial you understand where smoke alarms should be located within your property to give you the best protection in a fire. Read on to learn more about where you need to install smoke alarms within your home.

In Multi-storey Homes

If you have a multi-storey property, smoke alarms need to be installed on every level. If you own the rental property, it's your job to ensure the property meets the minimal requirements of at least one functional smoke alarm on each level of your home. Remember, this is the bare minimum you need to do - anything else is extra but will certainly help give your tenants the best possible protection in the event of a fire.

In Bedrooms And Living Spaces

In addition to the minimal requirement of one smoke alarm per storey, it's recommended you install smoke alarms in each bedroom and living area, and in hallways connecting bedrooms.

Responsibilities Of Landlords And Tenants

It's not enough to simply have smoke alarms installed in your rental and forget about it. It's important both landlords and tenants know what's required of them and where their responsibilities lie in maintaining a functional smoke alarm.
 
Beyond installation requirements, landlords are responsible for checking smoke alarms when tenancy periods end or begin, and for replacing back-up batteries in hardwired smoke alarms. They also have the right to access the premises to fit a smoke alarm, after giving the tenant at least two days' warning.
 
Once a property is rented, it's the tenant's job to replace the battery in a smoke alarm if it has one. Sometimes a tenant might not be able to change the battery; in this case, it's up to the landlord to do so.
 
Neither the landlord nor tenant is permitted to remove or interfere with a smoke alarm's operation, unless there's good reason to do so.

Need To Update Or Install A Smoke Alarm? Choose On Guard Security & Communications

With over 25 years' experience in the industry, there's really no better team to call than On Guard Security & Communications when you need smoke alarm upgrades in your Newcastle rental. Bringing a background in the communications industry, our team has developed a strong security knowledge and combined it with our telecommunications expertise and trademark flexibility to deliver the reliable, effective security services our clients have come to rely on. We commit to the highest standards of customer service, exceptional products, and quality workmanship on each and every job. For quality smoke alarm solutions throughout Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast, choose the experts at On Guard. Contact us today on 0409 656 398 to learn more about what we do, to speak to one of our friendly team members, or to book a job with us.