NSW Smoke Detector Legislation: Everything You Need To Know
The NSW Government recently implemented a much-needed “firming up” of the smoke alarm rules in rental properties, in particular smoke detector legislation. Property managers must now provide considerable information regarding the types of smoke alarms and how they are powered.
In order to give property managers across NSW all the data they will need to properly fill out the new tenancy lease agreement, we have upgraded our reporting system.
Smoke alarms placed in rental premises should have been in operational order by March 23, 2020, for landlords and agents in New South Wales.
This informative article gives you more insight into smoke alarms and regulations.
Legislation
The onus of making sure smoke alarms are functional and adhere to Australian Standard 3786 rests with the landlord. According to the Building Code of Australia, Part 3.7.2, smoke alarms must be installed in sites that comply with the regulations.
Landlords and Tenants
According to NSW law, your landlord must make sure that your home has at least one functional smoke alarm installed on every floor in order for it to comply with the minimum safety standards. Smoke alarms must be installed by landlords in rental properties.
Smoke alarms may be installed in a rented space by the landlord with at least two days’ notice to the tenant. Battery-operated smoke alarms must have their batteries changed, if necessary, when the tenancy begins. The landlord is responsible for changing the backup batteries in hardwired smoke alarms.
The tenant is expected to tell the landlord as soon as is reasonably possible if they are physically unable to change the battery. Smoke alarms must be specifically mentioned in the condition report portion of the tenancy agreement so that both tenants and landlords can note and comment on their presence at the start and end of the tenancy.
Homeowners
Smoke alarms are required to be fitted in homes in NSW on every level, according to the law. This includes privately owned residences, rental homes, mobile homes, campervans and any other type of residential structure used for sleeping.
Get in contact with our team at Pacific Smoke Alarms if you require our expertise on the NSW smoke detector legislation today.