Smoke alarm laws – what you need to know in Queensland – July 2020
Channel: RTAQueensland
Date: 12/08/2020

Watch the RTA webinar: Smoke alarm laws – what you need to know in Queensland for information in collaboration with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) regarding the Fire and Emergency Services (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Amendment Act 2016. 

The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners/managers and tenants in relation to maintenance or installation of smoke alarms. 

The Fire and Emergency Services (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Amendment Act 2016 requires the installation of photoelectric smoke alarms, which have been proven to be more effective in domestic homes by providing critical early warning of the presence of a fire. The legislation is applicable from 1 January 2022 for rental properties in Queensland. 

Topics include: 
-     What property owners need to do to ensure their rental property meets the requirements by the due date 
-     Property owner/manager and tenant obligations for smoke alarms, including cleaning and testing 
-     Useful terminology to know when upgrading alarms, such as interconnected, hardwired, photoelectric and the Australian Standard 
-     Requirements for new leases, renewal of tenancy agreements, and if a property is being sold 
-     Clarification of different compliance dates for new buildings, rental properties and owner occupiers 

Further information on the smoke alarm laws is available from QFES.