Are Your Smoke Alarms Compliant for WA Laws?

Introduction

Smoke alarms are one of the most crucial yet overlooked safety features in any home or commercial property. In Western Australia, strict legislation governs where, how, and what kind of smoke alarms must be installed, especially when selling, renting, or building a home.

At Handcock Electrical, we’ve helped countless Perth homeowners, landlords, and property managers stay safe and compliant. In this article, we unpack everything you need to know about smoke alarm laws in WA, and how to ensure your home is protected and up to code.

Why Smoke Alarms Matter

According to DFES (Department of Fire and Emergency Services), working smoke alarms double your chances of surviving a house fire.

However, they must be:

• Installed in the correct locations

• Hardwired (not battery-only)

• Interconnected in some cases

• Tested regularly

• Replaced after 10 years

WA law mandates all this; and failure to comply can cost you dearly.

WA Smoke Alarm Laws at a Glance

Here are the key smoke alarm requirements based on property type:

Owner-Occupied Homes

• Must have mains-powered (hardwired) smoke alarms

• Installed before transfer of ownership or tenancy

• Positioned:

  • In hallways near bedrooms

  • On each level of the home

• Alarms must comply with AS 3786:2014 standard

• Alarms must be less than 10 years old

Rental Properties

• Landlords must ensure:

  • Smoke alarms are hardwired

  • Alarms are tested within 30 days before tenancy begins

  • Any faulty alarms are replaced immediately

• Penalties apply for non-compliance

New Builds & Renovations

• All new homes (or major renovations) must have:

  • Interconnected smoke alarms

  • Hardwired power source with battery backup

  • Minimum one alarm per level and outside every bedroom area

Are Your Smoke Alarms Compliant?

Here’s a quick checklist:

If you’re unsure about even one of these, it’s time to call a licensed electrician, like the team at Handcock Electrical.

Common Compliance Issues We See

1. Battery-Only Alarms in Rentals

Landlords sometimes assume a working battery-operated unit is enough, but it’s not.

Fix: Replace with mains-powered units.

2. Incorrect Placement

A smoke alarm in the wrong location may not activate quickly enough to save lives.

Fix: Install in hallways, not kitchens. Avoid placing too close to fans or vents.

3. Outdated Alarms

Alarms degrade over time and become less sensitive.

Fix: Replace alarms that are 10 years old or older, even if they “still work.”

4. No Interconnection in New Builds

If alarms aren’t connected, one might trigger while others remain silent.

Fix: Upgrade to interconnected alarms using hardwired or wireless technology.

Real Example: Bunbury Rental Property

We recently helped a Bunbury landlord who was unaware her rental was non-compliant. The existing alarms were over 12 years old and battery-operated.

We:

• Installed hardwired smoke alarms in the correct locations

• Provided compliance certification

• Created a maintenance schedule for future tenants

Now, she’s compliant and protected, and so are her tenants.

What Handcock Electrical Offers

As your trusted local electricians in South West WA, we provide:

• Smoke alarm inspections
• Hardwired alarm installation
• Compliance upgrades
• Annual testing plans for landlords
• Certification for sales or tenancy changes

Our team works with homeowners, real estate agents, and property managers to ensure full peace of mind.

Maintenance Tips

• Test smoke alarms monthly

• Clean alarms with a vacuum twice a year

• Replace the backup battery yearly

• Replace the entire unit every 10 years

• Keep a log for insurance or rental compliance

WA Smoke Alarm FAQ

Q: Can I install smoke alarms myself?
A: No. WA law requires a licensed electrician for hardwired installations.

Q: Do I need smoke alarms in every bedroom?
A: Not by law (unless new build), but it is strongly recommended.

Q: Do I need an alarm if I live alone?
A: Yes, all properties must comply regardless of occupant number.

Final Word

A smoke alarm can save your life, but only if it’s installed properly and compliant with WA laws.

If you’re unsure, let us help.

Handcock Electrical provides professional inspections, upgrades, and advice for all types of homes and properties across Perth.