Interconnected
smoke alarms

The number of interconnected smoke alarms required varies based on the layout of the home. The following provides the minimum number of alarms required based on the number of bedrooms and/or storeys at a property. It is provided as a guide only. For a fixed quotation, a site inspection will be required.

In Queensland, an office or study will require a smoke alarm unless there is a reason why the space could not also be used as a bedroom.

In other states, existing smoke alarms will be interconnected or new interconnected alarms will be installed to ensure each property is compliant with the smoke alarm legislation applicable in its state.

Victorian¹, New South Wales² and South Australian³ legislation require compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). The BCA provides technical provisions for the design and construction of buildings through the National Construction Code (NCC).

In the case of fire safety requirements, BCA 2014 (E2.2a and Part 3.7.5) in summary requires that smoke alarms must:

• Be installed in all Class 1a (single dwelling) and Class 2 buildings (apartments);
• Comply with Australian Standards (AS 3786)
• Be mains powered and interconnected where the dwelling was constructed after 1 May 2014 and there is more than one alarm in the property.

Of note is the build date requirement of 1 May 2014. Properties built after this date, in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia must have interconnected smoke alarms where more than one is present.

In QLD, as of 1 January 2022, before a new tenancy begins, an existing tenancy renews or the property is sold, smoke alarms must be upgraded to meet the requirements of the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990.

This means they must have photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms installed on each storey and in all bedrooms and hallways, powered by mains power or non-removable 10-year lithium battery.