Tenant vs landlord smoke alarm responsibilities
It's often confusing as to who takes care of what in relation to smoke alarms in rental properties. Especially for those tenants and landlords new to the experienced.
The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) sets out the responsibilities plainly so each party is clear on their roles in regard to the smoke alarms in their homes.
The tenant's smoke alarm obligations
- test and clean the smoke alarms at least once every 12 months (by vacuuming or dusting the alarm)
- replace batteries when the alarm indicates the need (often with a flashing light or a continuous beep)
- let the property manager or property owner know if there are any issues with the smoke alarms (apart from flat batteries)
- allow entry so the smoke alarms can be installed, replaced or tested.
- tenants must not remove smoke alarms, take batteries out and not replace them, or do anything to reduce the effectiveness of the alarm.
Landlord or property managers duties
- install compliant smoke alarms outside sleeping areas and on each level of a property
- replacing smoke alarms prior to the end of their service life (usually 10 years under normal conditions)
- testing, cleaning and replacing flat or near flat batteries within 30 days of a new or renewed tenancy.
- landlords or property managers must not remove smoke alarms, take batteries out and not replace them, or do anything to reduce the effectiveness of the alarm.
If in doubt, consult the professionals
If you need professional help with the smoke alarm installation, repairs, or testing in a property you own, manage or rent speak to our electrical team on 07 3883 2119 or complete our short service request form today.
Find out more about the recently updated Queensland smoke alarm legislation - Interconnected smoke alarms required for every QLD home
Reference - rta.qld.gov.au/Renting/During-a-tenancy/Maintenance-and-repairs/Smoke-alarms
