Smoke alarms & safety in Queensland
Key rules at a glance
| Alarm type | Photoelectric only (AS 3786:2014); ionisation alarms no longer complySource: Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990 (Qld) |
|---|---|
| Placement & interconnection | Every bedroom, hallways connecting bedrooms, and each storey; all alarms interconnected (wired or wireless)Source: QFES |
| Power & age | Hard-wired or a non-removable 10-year lithium battery; replace alarms over 10 years oldSource: QFES |
| Landlord duty | Test and clean within 30 days before the start of a new tenancy or a lease renewal, and at least every 12 monthsSource: RTA Qld |
| Other safety | A safety switch (RCD) must protect general power circuits, installed within 90 days of a tenancy starting if not already presentSource: Electrical Safety Act 2002 (Qld) |
How it works in Queensland
Queensland's interconnected photoelectric alarm regime has applied to rental properties since 1 January 2022 and extends to all residential dwellings by 1 January 2027. Every bedroom, the hallways linking them, and each storey must have a photoelectric alarm meeting AS 3786:2014, all interconnected so one trigger sounds them all. Landlords must test and clean the alarms within 30 days before a new or renewed tenancy. A safety switch must also protect the property's power circuits within 90 days of a tenancy starting.
Queensland Fire and Emergency ServicesFrequently asked questions
What smoke alarms are required in Queensland rentals?▾
Photoelectric, interconnected alarms (AS 3786:2014) in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms, and on every storey. They must be hard-wired or have a non-removable 10-year battery.
How often must a QLD landlord test smoke alarms?▾
Test and clean each alarm within 30 days before the start of a new tenancy or a lease renewal, and at least every 12 months during a tenancy.
When must all Queensland homes comply?▾
Rental properties have had to comply since 1 January 2022. All residential dwellings, including owner-occupied homes, must comply by 1 January 2027.
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Last reviewed 9 June 2026
Figures reflect the 2025–26 financial year and tenancy laws in force as at mid-2026. State rules change often — always confirm the current figure with the linked authority before you rely on it.
This is general information for Australian landlords, not legal, financial, or tax advice. PropAlly is a software provider, not a law firm, accountant, or licensed adviser. Verify your obligations with the relevant state authority or a qualified professional.