New smoke alarm requirements: What homeowners and landlords need to know

Keeping our homes safe is something we all care about, and staying updated on fire safety regulations is a big part of that. New smoke alarm requirements have been rolled out across New Zealand, and our experts at AMI HomeHub have outlined the key information to keep you in the loop.

Whether you’re a homeowner or landlord, here’s what you need to know about these changes and how they'll impact you.

In November 2023, updates were made to the New Zealand Building Code for smoke alarm requirements, with a 12-month transition period that ended in November 2024. 

The Building Code Acceptable Solutions for Protection from Fire (C/AS1 and C/AS2) now require interconnected smoke alarms as the minimum fire safety system for new homes and substantial renovations¹. 

Here’s what you need to know about installation:

• Where to install: 
  • Smoke alarms must be in every bedroom, living area, landing, each level of the dwelling and hallway.
  • If your kitchen or scullery can be closed off with a door, then a heat alarm must be installed in this area.
  • Install alarms on or near the ceiling.²
• Alarm options: You can choose compliant smoke alarms that are either 10-year long-life battery (sealed) or 240v mains powered.²

The main benefit of these changes is improved fire safety. Interconnected smoke alarms provide a more reliable alert system compared to standalone alarms. They boost chances of early detection and evacuation, even if people are in different rooms. 

The statistics speak for themselves. In the last year, AMI settled over $42 million across 356 fire-related Home claims³. Having an early warning system can significantly reduce the risk of property damage, injuries and even fatalities⁴.

Meet the new smoke alarm requirements with this simple checklist:

1. Install interconnected smoke alarms:
   • For new builds and renos, ensure all smoke alarms are interconnected, either wirelessly or hard-wired.
2. Choose the right alarms:
   • You must use compliant smoke alarms that meet standards BS EN 14604, AS3786, UL 217, CAN/ULC S531 or ISO 12239 for all new builds and renovations. For example, the Cavius 10 Year Photoelectric or Recessed Mains Powered Photoelectric Smoke alarms.
   • Use 10-year long-life battery alarms (sealed) or 240v mains-powered alarms with a battery backup.
3. Placement:
   • If you are building or undergoing renovations, you will need to install alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.
4. Regular testing:
   • All homeowners should test all smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are working correctly.
5. Maintenance:
   • Replace smoke alarms in all households every 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer
   • Vacuum all smoke alarms regularly (every 2-3 months, depending on the location of the alarm).
6. Stay informed:
   • It’s important for all homeowners to keep up to date with any further changes to fire safety regulations.

By following this checklist, you can help make your home safer from fire risks.

For more information on the new smoke alarm requirements and how to make your home compliant, download the latest New Zealand Standard for Interconnected smoke alarms for houses. 

Staying informed and proactive with new fire safety regulations is one of the best ways you can safeguard your home, protecting the people and things you love. 

References:

1 https://www.building.govt.nz/about-building-performance/all-news-and-updates/updates-to-the-building-code-have-been-published 

2 https://www.standards.govt.nz/shop/nzs-45142021 

3 Source: AMI Claims data figures for settled home fire claims from 1st July 2023 – 30th June 2024

4 Source: Report 167: Unintentional Domestic Fire Related injury in New Zealand & Heads Up 027 – Value of Fire Protection Systems