When you're about to move home in Australia, the smoke alarm and fire-safety details are not just optional extras. They’re legal compliance issues that can’t be overlooked.
Each state and territory has its own set of rules for the type, placement and maintenance of smoke alarms in the home. Whether you’re buying, selling or renting, you’re required to ensure that the property meets current standards before settlement or tenancy begins.
But don’t worry, all it takes is a few simple checks and installations and you’re covered. In this guide, we’re breaking down the exact steps depending on what part of Australia you’re moving to or from.
Not all smoke alarms are created equal. In some states, there are strict rules around which smoke alarms are considered compliant. Here are the most common types of smoke alarms used in Australia.
Before we get into the breakdown by state and territory, here’s the national standard when it comes to smoke alarms and fire safety in Australian homes:
These rules cover most houses, but some places, like boarding houses or apartments, might have different systems.
In NSW, smoke alarms are required on every level of your home. This includes houses you live in yourself, rental properties, caravans, campervans, or any other place where people sleep.
If you’re buying your first property, it’s worth reading our guide to buying your first home for more insight into what to check before and after settlement.
Your landlord has to make sure your home meets the minimum rules, which means at least one working smoke alarm on each level.
Once you move in, if the alarms are battery-operated, it’s your job to replace the battery when needed. For hardwired alarms, the landlord takes care of the backup battery.
If you can’t physically change a battery yourself, just let your landlord know as soon as you can.
If you’re renting, it’s worth checking out our guide on renting in Australia for more tips on your responsibilities when moving between properties.
Smoke alarms are even more important in vans, where escape options are limited. NSW law states that there must be at least one alarm where you sleep, and one in the annexe (if there is one). These alarms should have a “hush” button, so you can silence them for 10 minutes if needed.
View more info on NSW smoke alarm requirements
Queensland has some of the strictest smoke alarm laws in Australia. Here’s what you need to know if you are moving house, renting, or selling a property.
To be compliant in QLD, smoke alarms must:
For private homes, townhouses, and units, alarms must be installed:
Read more info on QLD smoke alarm requirements.
Smoke alarms are required in every residential building and must be installed on or near the ceiling of each storey.
They should be placed to wake sleeping occupants, usually between bedrooms and the rest of the house. For extra safety, the CFA and FRV recommend alarms in every bedroom and living area. Ceiling alarms should be at least 30cm from the wall, and wall-mounted alarms at least 30cm from the ceiling to avoid dead air space.
In Western Australia, homes must have smoke alarms that are:
Avoid dead air spaces that can trap hot air and stop smoke from reaching the alarm. These usually occur at cathedral ceiling peaks, corners where walls meet ceilings, or between exposed joists.
Smoke alarms should be on or near the ceiling, at least 300mm from the wall. If ceiling installation isn’t possible, place them on the wall 300–500mm below the ceiling. For sloping ceilings, alarms should be 500–1500mm from the highest point.
In the NT, all residential properties and movable dwellings, including caravans, must have approved smoke alarms.
When moving house, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure the smoke alarms are working properly.
A quick way to test them is with a little spray of ‘fake’ smoke to see if the alarm triggers. You should also press the test button every six months to check the battery and the sound. Choosing alarms with 10-year lithium batteries makes life easier, as you won’t need to change them for a long time.
Some newer alarms can be tested with a remote control, while others have a reachable button. Pay attention to the low-battery beeps and don’t ignore them. Always replace the battery.
Many alarms also have little lights, called escape lights, to guide you out safely if the power fails.
If you want extra safety, you can look into alarms that are interconnected and hardwired to your mains power. For these, it’s best to chat with an electrician or fire alarm specialist to make sure everything is set up correctly.
You can buy alarms at most hardware stores or specialist fire equipment shops.
Making sure your smoke alarms are compliant and working properly might feel like a small task, but it’s one of the most important things you can do when moving house. From checking batteries to confirming interconnection, a few minutes now can save lives later. To make the rest of your move just as smooth, follow our ultimate moving house checklist to stay organised every step of the way.
And while you’re planning your move, Upmove is your go-to moving service provider to help you book the best moving teams in your area and across Australia, so your move is smooth and stress-free from start to finish.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
