Frequently Asked Questions
Get Informed
What is the new Smoke Alarm Legislation in Queensland?
As of January 1, 2022, all rental properties in Queensland that are Class 1a or Class 2 buildings must comply with the new smoke alarm requirements that are detailed in the Fire and Emergency Services Act.
Smoke alarms in all dwellings must:
be photoelectric (AS 3786-2014); and
not also contain an ionisation sensor; and be less than 10 years old; and
operate when tested; and
be interconnected with every other smoke alarm in
the dwelling so all activate together.
Smoke alarms must be installed on each storey:
in each bedroom; and
in hallways which connect bedrooms and the rest of the dwelling; or
if there is no hallway, between the bedrooms and other parts of the storey; and
if there are no bedrooms on a storey at least one smoke alarm must be installed in the most likely path of travel to exit the dwelling.
How many alarms do I need to Install?
The layout of the property determines how many alarms are required. In most cases the current alarms will be replaced and new alarms installed in each of the bedrooms.
How much will this cost?
Photoelectric Alarms Australia installs and replaces alarms:
from $110 (incl GST) per wireless alarm with 10 year lithium 3v photoelectric alarm with RF wireless interconnection module and non-removable battery - Supply & Fitted OR;
from $150 (inc GST)* per Hardwired alarm 240v photoelectric alarm/s with inbuilt non-removable rechargeable battery & RF wireless interconnection module - Supply & Fitted (*for replacing existing hardwired alarms)
Please contact us for a Quote
When should we upgrade?
Photoelectric Alarms Australia is getting you started already. Any alarm that fails between now and 2022, will be upgraded to the new type, ensuring you have 10 years of use. Remember you have until 2022, so if you would like to spread the cost over a longer period, it makes sense to get started now.
Photoelectric Alarms Australia is assessing each property so your Property Manager will soon have specific information available for you
Why do the current alarms need replacing?
Until now, very few alarms met the Australian Standard 3786:2014. They must also have the capacity to interconnect with the other alarms being placed in the house.
What kind of alarms are best?
We believe in value for money. An alarm we install today should meet the rules for today and the next 10 years. Photoelectric Alarms Australia has selected the JBE range of alarms for all our work. Not only are they the same manufacturer of a leading brand in Australia, they have an excellent reputation for durability and quality, each alarm comes with a 3 year warranty, so if there is a fault, we simply replace the alarm, no questions asked.
Best Value with no compromises in Quality.
My property is a bit different, will that be a problem?
Another reason we believe JBE is best. Their products enable us to use a mix of hard wired and battery powered alarms, with them all connecting to each other via radio frequency. Rather than removing ceilings or adding unsightly conduit, this technology means we can use a handy battery powered alarm downstairs, and continue to use the hard wired alarms upstairs. This is advisable for concrete ceilings and where asbestos may be present and remains 100% compliant.
What about my own home?
The State Government has given homeowners a few extra years to bring their own house up to compliance. Unless renovating or selling, your home will not need to be upgraded until 2027. Of course, Photoelectric Alarms Australia will be delighted to make your home a safe, so please let us know if you have any questions.
Why use Photoelectric Alarms Australia?
We source the best possible quality products (and we are the direct importer) with the intention not just to save lives but to save home owners, landlords, property managers etc. money.
"Best Value with no compromises in Quality."
With a combined wealth of experience of over 60 years in the Australian trade and Real Estate Industry, the dedication from the board of directors is passionate to providing a 'no brainer' solution to home owners in Australia to have their home smoke alarm compliant.