Is pushing the button enough when it comes to testing your smoke alarm?
The experts say NO!!!
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act require you to regularly test and maintain the smoke alarms in your property. Removable batteries are to be regularly tested, maintained and replaced as required. In addition, smoke detectors are required to be replaced at no later than 10 years.
The smoke alarm Regulations specify the type of buildings which need smoke alarms installed, the type of alarm and where they are to be located. So type of alarm and location are two important items to be decided upon when installing a smoke alarm.
The new Residential Tenancy Agreement states that the landlord must ensure that smoke alarms are installed and maintained in the premises and that the tenant will not interfere with the operation of a smoke alarm. The onus on the tenant to maintain the smoke alarm is no longer the case.
If checking an alarm all the above requirements need to be taken into consideration. The easiest option is to appoint an expert, such as a specialist smoke alarm company.
An expert will carry out functional testing more substantial than a mere “button” test. The goal of a smoke detector is to pick up that which it is designed to which is to detect smoke.
Therefore, to know that the detectors work, you need to physically and functionally test detectors for at least smoke detection to ensure their correct operation.
It is wise to ensure that you have proof that the alarm has been installed and tested. It is therefore important to appoint a smoke alarm company to maintain your smoke alarm or make sure you keep all records including receipts relating to installation and maintenance.
If you would like to know more about the smoke alarm requirement for rented premises, please feel free to call me on 9524 0777.
Kerrie Walker
