Smoke Alarms in NSW Homes: Placement, Types and Replacement

The minimum

NSW requires at least one working smoke alarm on every level of a home. That is the legal floor, not the best setup.

Photoelectric and interconnected

Photoelectric alarms respond well to smouldering fires. Interconnection means that when one alarm sounds, every alarm in the house sounds, which matters when bedroom doors are closed.

Where they go

Hallways outside bedrooms, inside bedrooms and on every level. Keep them away from kitchens and bathrooms where steam and cooking cause false alarms.

Replace every 10 years

Check the date on the back of each alarm. Most manufacturers recommend replacement after 10 years.

Landlords

Rental properties have their own smoke alarm obligations. We test, replace and document alarms for landlords and property managers.