The Importance of Smoke Detectors
by Lorena D'Amico, Senior Property Portfoilio Manager
The Importance of Smoke Detectors
It is a requirement of all residential properties that appropriate smoke alarms are installed in all required areas. Smoke alarms are life-saving devices and are essential in terms of the safety of those residing in the property, but also in terms of protecting your asset and meeting your legal requirements.
It’s the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure a working smoke alarm is installed in the property before a new tenant moves in. It is then the responsibility of the Tenant to ensure the smoke alarm is kept in good working order, and the batteries are tested and changed regularly.
It is seriously recommended that smoke detectors be integrated in different parts of a property to ensure maximum safety. We advise smoke detectors in the bedroom, kitchen, and even outside the house. Of course, you should carefully select the areas appropriate to fit in your smoke detectors, depending of the layout of the property. Some areas, such as above fireplaces, can cause false alarms so it is suggested you consider the position before installing.
As Property Managers, we like to give all our Tenants a friendly reminder to change their smoke detector batteries and encourage them to ensure they are working appropriately. When conducting routine inspections of the property, we will always speak with the Tenant and remind them to change the batteries. A good way to remember changing the batteries is to do so when daylight savings begins and ends.
The Tenant’s responsibility to ensure the device is kept clean and free of obstruction during a tenancy. It is also the Tenant’s responsibility to advise their Property Manager or Landlord if the smoke alarm is faulty to ensure a replacement is made as soon as possible.
It’s important to ensure all appliances in an investment property are kept in good working condition, including smoke alarms, not only for the safety of those living there, but also to ensure all parties are meeting their obligations.
For more information about your rights and obligations as a Landlord or Tenant, please feel free to call our office on 1300 726 082 and speak with a John Hopkins Property Portfolio Manager who can assist you further or click here.
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