Queensland has some of the strictest smoke alarm laws in Australia, and the final deadline is close. This guide is based on current Queensland Fire Department (QFD) smoke alarm guidance. Always check the QFD website for the full and current rules.
The deadline: 1 January 2027
According to QFD, all existing private homes, townhouses, units and manufactured homes need interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms by 1 January 2027.
If you are selling, the rules already apply. QFD states that when a contract of sale is signed after 31 December 2021, the seller must upgrade the smoke alarms before the property transfers.
What type of alarm?
- Photoelectric. Alarms must be photoelectric and must not contain an ionisation sensor.
- Compliant with AS 3786-2014. The standard is marked on the alarm.
- Interconnected. Every alarm in the home must be connected so they all go off together.
Where alarms need to go
QFD guidance requires smoke alarms:
- On each storey
- In each bedroom
- In hallways that connect bedrooms and the rest of the home
- If there is no hallway, between the bedroom and the other parts of that storey
- If a storey has no bedrooms, in the most likely path of travel to exit the home
Hardwired or battery?
QFD allows either. Hardwired alarms must be installed by a licensed electrician and need a secondary power source, such as a non-removable 10-year battery. Alternatively, photoelectric alarms with a 10-year non-removable battery can be installed yourself, as long as they are interconnected.
Landlords
QFD guidance says landlords must test and clean every smoke alarm within 30 days before the start of a tenancy. Owners or landlords who do not comply can receive an infringement notice.
Tenants
During a tenancy, tenants must test and clean each smoke alarm at least once every 12 months. Pressing the test button is the test, and cleaning follows the manufacturer's instructions, usually a vacuum.
Getting your home compliant
Smoke alarms are one of the simple jobs Bryan can usually price on the spot. He installs hardwired interconnected photoelectric alarms, tests alarms in rentals, and works with real estate agents and landlords. Whoever does the work, ask for a Compliance certificate The paperwork an electrician provides after testing completed work, confirming it was tested and is safe to use. for your records.
See smoke alarm compliance in Bundaberg or book Bryan in before the deadline.
Source: Queensland Fire Department, Smoke alarms, checked October 2026.