Queensland’s smoke alarm laws are changing from 1 January 2027, requiring all owner-occupied homes to have upgraded, interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms. This follows the same standards rental properties have needed to comply with since 2022.
What are the new requirements for owner-occupiers?
From 1 January 2027, all Queensland dwellings—including homes, townhouses, units must have smoke alarms that are:
- Photoelectric (AS 3786-2014)
- Hardwired and installed by a licensed electrician (e.g. 240v) to the mains power supply with a secondary power source (i.e. non-removable 10-year battery) or;
- Powered by a non-removable 10-year battery
- Installed in every bedroom, in hallways that connect bedrooms, and on every storey
- Interconnected so all alarms sound together when any one is triggered
- Fully operational when tested
All registered caravans and motorhomes must also be fitted with a photoelectric smoke alarm.
Find our summary of the detailed legislation here.
Staged rollout of the requirements
The legislation introduced these requirements in stages for different dwelling types under the Building Fire Safety (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Legislation Amendment Regulation 2016:
- From 1 January 2017 – all new and substantially renovated dwellings (including building applications submitted from this date)
- From 1 January 2022 – all domestic dwellings that are leased or sold
- From 1 January 2027 – applies to all other owner-occupied dwellings
We have a breakdown for QLD landlords and sellers obligations here.
Why are smoke alarms important?
Compliant, interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms provide early warning that can help save lives. In 2024 alone, Queensland families experienced more than 1,600 house fires. Over the past 25 years, the state has averaged around 10 residential fire-related deaths each year. Research shows that more than one-third of home fire fatalities occur in homes without smoke alarms, and that the risk of dying in a house fire is reduced by half when working smoke alarms are installed.
For more information about QLD house fires and to learn why QLD smoke alarm laws are the strictest in the country click here.
For the full picture of what the law requires, how many alarms a home like yours needs and what an upgrade costs, read our Queensland 2027 smoke alarm guide.
What should owner-occupiers do to prepare?
- Conduct a smoke alarm audit now
Check your current smoke alarms for type, placement, and interconnection.
Not sure how many alarms you need for your QLD property? Visit our FAQs. - Schedule upgrades early
Promptly engage a provider to replace or install compliant photoelectric interconnected alarms as it’s possible supply will be limited or prices will rise, especially near the cut-off dates of 1 January 2027.
Why choose Detector Inspector for your upgrades?
- Multiple alarm brands available - Detector Inspector and PSA alarms available for delivery and installation
- Competitive pricing - $89 incl. GST per Detector Inspector Alarm or $149 incl. GST per PSA alarm
- Useful features - Complimentary wireless smoke alarm controller with installation of either brand
- Multiple alarm types - Interconnected smoke alarms are available in 10-year lithium and hardwired alarm types
Learn more and book your smoke alarm upgrade online in minutes.
Helping protect your home and loved ones
To avoid any delays, we recommend you don’t wait until the last minute to make your home compliant. Find our upgrade offer here or contact us today.
