Smoke alarms are cheap, simple and one of the most important safety devices in your home. But a lot of Ballarat homes still have alarms that are expired, in the wrong spot or not working at all.
What the rules say
According to the Building and Plumbing Commission:
- Smoke alarms are compulsory in every residential building, on or near the ceiling of every storey.
- They must be located between each bedroom area and the rest of the house, positioned to wake people who are asleep.
- Alarms must meet Australian Standard AS 3786.
- Homes built after 1 August 1997 need alarms connected to 240V mains power with a backup battery.
- Homes built before 1 August 1997 can use battery-powered alarms. 10-year lithium battery units are recommended.
- Owners who don't meet the requirements of the Building Regulations can be fined.
What fire services recommend on top of the minimum
- An alarm in every bedroom and living area, not just the hallway.
- Interconnected alarms, so when one goes off, they all go off. This can be hardwired by an electrician or done with wireless 10-year lithium units.
- Test monthly using the test button, and vacuum them regularly to keep dust out.
When to replace your smoke alarms
Smoke alarms are generally replaced every 10 years. Check the expiry date on the alarm. If it's older than that, or you can't find a date at all, it's time. A single chirp every 30 seconds or so usually means the battery needs replacing.
Renting out your property?
Landlords have extra obligations, including testing smoke alarms every 12 months. See our rental electrical safety check guide.
Need alarms installed or upgraded?
We install hardwired and interconnected smoke alarms across Ballarat, replace expired units and can check your whole home's compliance in one visit. See our smoke alarm and safety services.
Frequently asked questions
Do smoke alarms have to be hardwired in Victoria?
Homes built after 1 August 1997 must have smoke alarms connected to 240V mains power with a backup battery. Homes built before then can use battery-powered alarms, with 10-year lithium units recommended.
How often should smoke alarms be replaced?
Smoke alarms are generally replaced every 10 years. The expiry date is usually printed on the alarm, often under the battery or on the back.
Where do smoke alarms need to go?
On or near the ceiling of every storey, between each bedroom area and the rest of the house. Victoria's fire services also recommend alarms in every bedroom and living area.
Need this sorted properly?
We're happy to talk it through over the phone or come out for a free, no-obligation quote across Ballarat and surrounds.
