Smoke alarms save lives — but only if they’re working correctly. In Victoria, landlords are legally required to ensure their rental properties meet smoke alarm compliance standards. This means regular checks, timely maintenance, and clear communication with tenants.
Legal Requirements in Victoria
Under Victorian rental laws, landlords must ensure smoke alarms are:
Installed in the correct locations (usually on the ceiling outside bedrooms and in living areas)
Tested at least once every 12 months
In good working order at the start of every tenancy
Only a licensed electrician or qualified smoke alarm technician can carry out certain repairs, replacements, or hard-wired installations.
Annual Maintenance
Annual smoke alarm checks typically involve:
Testing each alarm to confirm it’s working
Replacing batteries (for battery-operated models)
Checking for dust, cobwebs, or obstructions
Ensuring alarms are within their 10-year lifespan
Many landlords choose to hire a professional safety inspection service to guarantee compliance and keep proper records.
Tenant Responsibilities
While the landlord is responsible for annual checks, tenants must:
Notify the landlord or agent immediately if an alarm isn’t working
Avoid tampering with, removing, or disabling smoke alarms
Replace batteries in battery-powered alarms (unless the landlord has agreed to handle this as part of compliance services)
If a tenant removes batteries or disables a smoke alarm, they may face penalties and put themselves at risk.
Common Issues Found During Checks
Expired smoke alarms past their 10-year service life
Alarms positioned incorrectly, reducing effectiveness
Flat or missing batteries
Alarms damaged by paint or renovations
Blockages from dust or pests
Addressing these promptly keeps the property safe and avoids compliance breaches.
Conclusion
In Victoria, landlords must check smoke alarms at least once every year to meet legal safety requirements. Partnering with a licensed inspection service ensures compliance, protects your tenants, and gives you peace of mind. A small annual effort could make a life-saving difference.
- Ready to comply with Victoria’s rental laws? Book your Smoke Alarm check for $89 + GST