We are reminded that since 2006 smoke alarms have been mandatory in all buildings in NSW where people sleep.
Most building fire fatalities occur when people are asleep and a correctly installed smoke alarm increases time available for a safe escape. If you are a landlord, you must:
– install and maintain smoke alarms in your rental properties
– replace the battery in the smoke alarm at the start of each tenancy
A landlord, agent or their representative can enter the rented property to fit or maintain smoke alarms after giving the tenant at least 2 days’ notice. If you are a tenant, you are responsible for replacing batteries in any battery-operated smoke alarm as needed. Nobody can remove or interfere with a smoke alarm’s operation without a reasonable reason (such as a repair needs to be made). Fire and Rescue NSW can assist those physically unable to change a smoke detector battery. Visit the Fire and Rescue NSW website or call the Smoke Alarms Helpline on 1300 858 812 for more information.