Don’t panic, investors will have plenty of time to ensure they comply with new smoke alarm legislation that comes into effect on 1 January 2022.
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The misinformation regarding this important update continues. Many smoke alarm providers have fed a narrative coercing investors to carry out upgrades before 1 January 2022 with a fear they risk fines if not done. Some of the information is sourced directly from the QFES website e.g.
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From 1 January 2022, landlords must install interconnected smoke alarms in residential rental properties.
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Many have read statements like this and mistakenly thought the property can not be occupied after 1 January if the smoke alarms do not comply.
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The QFES do attempt to further clarify this comment on subsequent pages.
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From 1 January 2022, at the commencement of a new lease or lease renewal, you must ensure your dwelling / unit meets the requirements of the domestic smoke alarm legislation. This may involve installing interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms into the bedrooms in addition to the currently required smoke alarms.
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Important: Compliance with the new legislation is only required when entering into a tenancy agreement (a new agreement or renewal of an existing agreement).
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At Jeff Jones Real Estate we are advising clients of their obligations as January 2022 approaches. Smoke alarm contractors will advise the life span of the current installation and provide a summary of any upgrades required to meet the new legislation. Some clients are electing to carry out upgrades now whilst others are electing to wait until a tenancy commences after 1 January 2022.
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For more information on these changes visit the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ website.
