Everything you need to know, all in one place. Search our frequently asked questions below to find quick solutions and detailed guides.
Smoke alarms must:
Smoke alarms must be installed on each storey:
Queensland legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms that comply with AS 3786-2014. These alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations throughout the home.
Photoelectric alarms detect visible smoke particles and respond faster to smouldering fires, which are common in residential settings.
Ionisation alarms can respond slower in these scenarios and are no longer compliant for properties in Queensland.
Smoke alarms must last for the legislated service life of 10 years. Once this time has passed, both 240v and battery powered smoke alarms must be replaced.
Yes. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly and professionally serviced annually to ensure they remain operational and compliant.
Hardwired refers to the alarms power source being connected to the house mains 240v power. Interconnection is the communication between the smoke alarms allowing them to activate together, so when one alarm is triggered, they all go off. All our alarms offer wireless interconnection.
No. Existing smoke alarms connected to a 240v power supply must be replaced with a 240v alarm and hardwired accordingly by a qualified electrician.
No, if you are
Yes, if you are
If you’re unsure, speak to our expert team! 1300 293 031
Yes, all smoke alarms regardless of power source have a 10 year service life from the date of installation and must be changed thereafter.
Alarm performance and safety of 10yr Battery and Hardwired alarms are equal.
Since 1 January 2022, properties being sold or leased must comply with updated smoke alarm legislation.
By 1 January 2027, all Queensland homes must meet these standards.
Our compliance inspection service ensures your alarms meet Queensland’s regulations, providing you with the necessary certification and peace of mind.
Non-compliance may result in settlement delays, lease complications, potential legal exposure and insurance issues. Compliance should be confirmed before sale or lease commencement.
Yes. Queensland legislation requires smoke alarms inside every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the house and on each level of the dwelling.
Hardwired alarms are required where existing wiring is present. Otherwise, compliant sealed 10-year lithium battery models may be installed where permitted.
Yes. Following inspection, upgrade or servicing, written confirmation is provided where applicable.
As an owner occupying homeowner you have until January 1st, 2027, to achieve compliance.
Check with your insurer. Discounts are being offered by insurance providers for early adopters, but we encourage all our clients to consult with their insurance provider and the product disclosure statement relevant to their policy.
If your alarms are not photoelectric, not interconnected, or not installed in every bedroom and level, they are likely non-compliant. A professional inspection can confirm.
This depends on the number of bedrooms, storeys and layout. Most standard 3-bedroom homes require between 4–6 interconnected alarms.
Most residential upgrades are completed within 45-90 minutes
depending on property size.
Installations are completed cleanly and professionally with minimal disruption to your home.
Yes. Many homeowners choose to upgrade early for improved safety and peace of mind.
Yes. After January 1st, 2022, all properties need to be compliant with the new QLD smoke alarm legislation prior to the completion of the house sale. Failure to comply can allow for funds to be withheld by the purchaser to cover the cost of smoke alarm compliance works.
We offer a pre-purchase inspections and report service to put your mind at ease.
No, unless it is specifically written as a condition of your sales contract. We encourage professional certification and inspection for both buyers and sellers as it offers peace of mind backed by confidence in our decades of industry experience.
It is recommended to arrange an inspection as early as possible after signing the contract of sale to avoid last-minute delays.
Clear upgrade recommendations are provided and installation can typically be scheduled promptly prior to settlement.
Within 30 days prior to commencement of a tenancy agreement and once every 12 months.
Rental properties must have alarms tested and maintained. Annual servicing supports ongoing compliance and documentation.
Whilst the legislation maintains that this is the tenants responsibility every 12 months, we encourage adopting our professional compliance and inspection services for reduced liability and increased documentation and record keeping.
Yes, we are more than happy to issue entry notices on behalf of the rental agent. Our preference is to find a suitable time with tenants to be present rather than collecting keys and conducting vacant inspections.
No. The Smoke Alarm Guys exclusively specialise in residential dwellings only.
Yes. Our rental inspection reports are very detailed and thoroughly document the service and inspection conducted by our expert team.
Yes, reach out to our team for a Real Estate Partners Pack.
Yes. Structured servicing and compliance systems are available to support larger portfolios.
Yes, routine maintenance is required. To get optimal performance out of your smoke alarm system, routine cleaning of dust and insect debris from alarms will be beneficial regardless of the brand of smoke alarms installed. Failure to conduct routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions can lead to shorter alarm service life and increased false alarm events. Ask us about our Service Plans, we can take care of it for you!
Photoelectric smoke alarms use a light-based sensor. Household dust, insect debris, steam, excessive humidity fluctuations, cook fumes and unstable house electrical supplies are all issues that can trigger the smoke alarm. As above, regular cleaning is best for any smoke alarm and normally alleviates any issues.
Annual professional servicing is recommended to ensure ongoing reliability and compliance.
Servicing includes functional testing, interconnection testing, battery checks, cleaning, inspection of alarm age and condition, and documentation.
If a unit is faulty or nearing end-of-life, recommendations are provided and replacement can be arranged.
Yes. Even new alarms should be tested annually to confirm performance and maintain reliability.
Yes, routine maintenance is required. To get optimal performance out of your smoke alarm system, routine cleaning of dust and insect debris from alarms will be beneficial regardless of the brand of smoke alarms installed. Failure to conduct routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions can lead to shorter alarm service life and increased false alarm events. Ask us about our Service Plans, we can take care of it for you!
Bookings can be made via the enquiry form or by contacting the team directly.
Brisbane
Gold Coast
Sunshine Coast
Ipswich
Toowoomba
Expanding into Cairns and Townsville
Most inspections or servicing appointments are completed within 45–90 minutes depending on property size and alarm count.
Yes, as legislation requires alarms inside bedrooms. All technicians operate respectfully and professionally within occupied homes.
Yes. All installed alarms include a 10-year manufacturer-backed warranty.
Yes, we will beat any written quotation with comparable product and warranty.
Whilst we prioritise swift service, urgent requests are handled on a case-by-case basis. Contact us for immediate assistance or call 1300 293 031.
We recommend the WATCH smoke alarm brand for full replacement upgrades. There are three ranges, to meet the needs of every customer.
Yes, our site team are fully licenced electricians with several decades of combined industry experience. Our team members are highly experienced technicians that cover inspections, maintenance services and battery alarm installations.
