Smoke Alarm Compliance Certificates

An important aspect of conveyancing in Queensland is providing a smoke alarm compliance certificate to the buyer before settlement. The certificate confirms that the property has smoke alarms which comply with the relevant legislation.

From 1 January 2022, the Queensland government implemented new requirements regarding the standards of smoke alarm compliance certificates to ensure the safety of occupants. As a result, it is crucial to obtain a smoke alarm compliance certificate when selling a property in Queensland.

So, what is required?

• Smoke alarms in the property must:
• be photoelectric (AS3786-2014); and
• not also contain an ionisation sensor; and
• be less than 10 yrs old; and
• operate when tested; and
• be interconnected with every smoke alarm in the property.

• Smoke alarms must be installed in the following locations:
• on each storey
• in each bedroom
• between the bedroom and other parts of the storey if there in no hallway; and
• in the most likely path of exit if there are no bedrooms on a story.

What if you do not have a smoke alarm compliance certificate?

In cases where a seller cannot obtain a smoke alarm compliance certificate as the smoke alarms do not meet the legal requirements, they will need to engage a licensed electrician to rectify the issues before settlement. Otherwise, the seller may offer a price reduction to the buyer equal to 0.15% of the purchase price.

More information regarding smoke alarm compliance certificates can be found at:

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services: https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/prepare/fire/smoke-alarms/properties-for-sale-or-lease

Written by Jessica Oudyn