On the news this morning I heard that the website to ‘opt in or opt out’ of the Australian Government health initiative ‘My Health Record’ crashed yesterday as hoards of people went online at the last minute to make their choice.
In 2022 – just over three years away, smoke alarm compliance is changing. Our advise is to not leave the upgrading of smoke alarms to the new standard too late – otherwise the demand on electricians will be too high & works to comply won’t be completed.
Below is a summary of the new standards required:
The property owner/manager must ensure the rental premises meet all health and safety requirements.
Smoke alarms save lives. Reports have found that the risk of death in a house fire is reduced by more than half if properly maintained smoke alarms are installed.
The Fire and Emergency Services (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Amendment Act 2016 (Qld) commenced on 1 January 2017 and imposes additional obligations on property
owners/managers with regards to the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms at domestic dwellings.
If the existing smoke alarms were manufactured less than 10 years ago, and are still in good working order, they will comply with the new legislative requirements.
However, it is important for property owners/managers to understand the new requirements and the timeframes that apply.
Find out more about the new smoke alarm legislation from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
If you have questions concerning the new smoke alarm legislation, email SmokeAlarms@qfes.qld.gov.au.
How the new legislation affects dwellings being sold, leased or renewal of an existing lease
From 1 January 2017
When replacing smoke alarms, they must be of a photoelectric type which complies with Australian Standard (AS) 3786-2014.
Existing smoke alarms, manufactured more than 10 years ago, must be replaced (Note: smoke alarms should have the date of manufacture stamped on them).
Smoke alarms that do not operate when tested must be replaced immediately.
Existing hardwired smoke alarms, that need replacing, must be replaced with a hardwired photoelectric smoke alarm.
Our advise is to start planning to change smoke alarms to comply with the new requirements over the next two – three years!
Till next time,
Best Regards,
Paul, Joe & The Team
Ray White Cairns Beaches / Ray White Smithfield
While it may not be mandatory, the pre-settlement inspection is a vital part of the home-buying process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to breeze through settlement and focus on the excitement of moving into your new home. What is a Pre-Settlement Inspection? … Read more
If you’re in the process of buying or selling a property, the period between when it’s ‘under contract’ and ‘settlement day’ can feel like a waiting game. After all, the property is now sold, but you are waiting for the paperwork to be finalised and exchange to take effect. So, … Read more