If you're a landlord of a strata property, you may have been asked by your property manager to pay for a specialist company to inspect and replace batteries for the smoke alarm within your unit/lot. Most, if not all, landlords will agree this is crucial for tenant safety. But before you swiftly agree to this, check with your building/strata manager to see if such inspections are already covered by the owners corporation.
Generally speaking, if the smoke alarm was installed at the time the building was constructed, then the owners corporation is responsible for repair and maintenance of it. As such, the owners corporation's fire contractors will inspect all smoke alarms installed in the building as part of their annual fire safety inspection. If this is the case, there is no need to double up as you're already paying for it via your strata levy.
Since 23 March 2020, NSW landlords and agents need to ensure that smoke alarms installed in rented properties are in working order. Understanding and adhering to these responsibilities is crucial for compliance and tenant safety.
Responsibilities of Landlords and Agents for Smoke Alarms
Landlords and agents must adhere to several key requirements to ensure smoke alarms in rental properties are functional and compliant:
Timely Repairs: If a smoke alarm is not working, it must be repaired or replaced (including battery replacement) within 2 business days.
Annual Checks: Smoke alarms must be checked every year to confirm they are operational.
Replacement: Smoke alarms must be replaced within 10 years of manufacture, or earlier if specified by the manufacturer.
Battery Maintenance: Batteries must be installed or replaced annually, or as specified by the manufacturer for lithium batteries.
Notice Requirements: Provide at least 2 business days’ notice for inspections or assessments and at least 1 hour notice for repairs or replacements.
Tenant Responsibilities
Tenants also have a role in ensuring smoke alarms are functional:
Reporting Issues: Notify landlords or agents if a smoke alarm is not working, including when batteries need replacing.
Battery Replacement: Tenants must inform landlords when they change a battery or when a licensed electrician is engaged to repair or replace an alarm.
Importance of Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are a crucial safety feature in any property for several reasons:
Early Detection: They provide early warning of a fire, allowing more time for occupants to escape safely.
Life-Saving: Working smoke alarms significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a fire.
Property Protection: Early detection can help minimise property damage by allowing faster response from emergency services.
Legal Compliance: Ensuring smoke alarms are functional and compliant with regulations protects landlords from legal liability and potential fines.
As a strata landlord, it's crucial to understand your responsibilities and avoid unnecessary expenses. Before engaging external contractors, check with your strata manager to determine if the owners corporation covers smoke alarm inspections and maintenance. This can save you time and money, ensuring that you are not paying twice for the same service. If you are not getting assistance from your manager, it may be time to look for one that will - Compass Strata! Keeping your property and tenants safe is a top priority, and staying informed about your responsibilities is the first step.
