Frequently Asked Questions
How many smoke alarms do I need in my home in NSW?
Under NSW requirements, smoke alarms must be installed in every bedroom, in hallways that connect bedrooms to the rest of the home, and on every storey of the home including the basement. For a standard single-storey Hills District home with three bedrooms and one hallway, a minimum of four alarms is typical. We assess your specific floor plan and advise the correct number and placement when we quote.
Do smoke alarms need to be hardwired in NSW?
For new installations and replacements in homes built from 1 May 2014 onwards, hardwired alarms with battery backup are required. For older homes replacing existing battery-only alarms, a like-for-like battery replacement may be permissible, but hardwired interconnected alarms are strongly recommended and required for any new alarm point. If you’re unsure what applies to your home, we can advise when we quote.
How long do smoke alarms last?
Smoke alarms have a maximum service life of 10 years from the date of manufacture. After 10 years, the sensing element degrades and the alarm must be replaced regardless of whether it appears to be working. Check the manufacture date on the back of your alarms — if they are approaching or past 10 years, they need to be replaced.
What is the difference between hardwired and wireless interconnected smoke alarms?
Hardwired interconnected alarms are connected to the home’s electrical system and to each other via cable, so all alarms sound when one detects smoke. They have a 9V battery backup in case of power outage. Wireless interconnected alarms communicate via radio frequency rather than cable — achieving the same result without the need to run wiring through walls and ceilings. Wireless is the preferred option when retrofitting an existing home where cable installation would be disruptive.
Are landlords required to have compliant smoke alarms in NSW rental properties?
Yes. Landlords in NSW have a legal obligation to ensure smoke alarms are installed, functional, and compliant. Alarms must be tested and cleaned within 30 days before the start of a new tenancy, and replaced when they reach the end of their service life. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties and liability in the event of a fire. If you manage a rental property in the Hills District or Hawkesbury, we can assess and bring the property into compliance.
Can I install smoke alarms myself in NSW?
Battery-only smoke alarms can be installed by a homeowner. However, hardwired smoke alarms — including hardwired units with battery backup — must be installed by a licensed electrician, as they connect to the home’s electrical system. Given that hardwired interconnected alarms are now required for new installations in most circumstances, professional installation is the correct approach for most homes.
What happens if a smoke alarm goes off constantly or keeps chirping?
A chirping smoke alarm typically indicates a low or failing battery. Replace the 9V backup battery first. If the alarm continues to chirp after a battery replacement, or if it is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced entirely. A constantly sounding alarm (not triggered by smoke or steam) may indicate a faulty unit or end-of-life sensor — again, replacement is the correct course of action.
