On this page:
Why you need a smoke alarm What type of smoke alarm you need Where to buy smoke alarms Where to install smoke alarms
Why you need a smoke alarm
Smoke alarms can help save lives by providing occupants with early warning about house fires. Fitting a smoke alarm in your home will help you protect your family by getting them out quickly if a fire was to occur.
All South Australian homes must be fitted with a working smoke alarm. Homeowners and residential landlords are responsible for ensuring a working smoke alarm is installed in the property.
Fines of up to $750 apply if alarms are not installed.
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What type of smoke alarm you need
The type of smoke alarm you require depends on when you purchased your home or the age of your home.
Homes (or residential rental properties) purchased before 1 February 1998
You are required to fit a replaceable battery powered smoke alarm.
Homes (or residential rental properties) purchased on or after 1 February 1998
Regulation 76B requires a smoke alarm (or smoke alarms) be fitted within six months from the day on which title is transferred and be either:
- a 240 volt, mains powered smoke alarm, or
- a 10 year life, non-replaceable, non-removable, permanently connected battery powered smoke alarm.
Homes (or residential rental properties) built on or after 1 January 1995
The Building Code of Australia requires a 240 volt, mains powered smoke alarm.
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Where to buy smoke alarms
Smoke alarms can be purchased from:
- department stores
- hardware stores
- electrical retailers
- security companies
- fire protection companies.
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Where to install smoke alarms
Smoke alarms should be installed in a convenient location to give occupants reasonable warning when they are asleep. For examples of where to place smoke alarms, see the brochure
Smoke alarms save lives (PDF 434KB).
Depending on the size and layout of your home, it may be necessary to install more than one smoke alarm to provide sufficient warning.
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More information
Other websites
Australian Building Codes Board Standards Australia Metropolitan Fire Service Country Fire Service Hearing Solutions Downloads
Smoke alarms saves lives an important message for landlords (PDF 222KB)
Smoke alarms save lives (PDF 434KB)
For an alternative version of a document on this page contact
Building services.
Legislation
Development Act 1993
Development Regulations 2008