Amendments to the Building Code: Do you need Interconnected Smoke Alarms?
From November 2023, new homes and substantial renovations will require interconnected smoke alarms.
What has been introduced?
- Smoke alarms must be either 10-year long-life battery-operated or 240v mains powered and interconnected.
- Smoke alarms shall be located on or near the ceiling;
- Smoke alarms shall be provided with a ‘hush button.
- Smoke alarms shall be located in all bedrooms, living spaces, hallways, and landings within the building;
- Where a kitchen is separated from the living spaces and hallways by doors that can be closed, an alarm specified by its manufacturer as suitable for a kitchen shall be located in the kitchen. This may be a heat alarm to avoid nuisance activation’s;
- In a multi-level household unit, there shall be at least one smoke alarm on each level; and
- Where more than one smoke alarm is needed to meet the requirements of this standard, these smoke alarms shall all be interconnected so that when one activates, all smoke alarm devices in the household unit will sound.
When will this happen?
The amendments came into effect from the 1st November 2023. The changes will have a 12-month transition period ending in November 2024.
What does Interconnected mean?
It means the Smoke Alarms communicate with each other, forming an integrated system of protection for the property. Alarms can be interconnected via wires or wirelessly via RF radio signals. If one alarm in the property activates, they all activate. Even if a fire starts and is detected in the kitchen, people asleep upstairs will hear the alarm because of this safety feature.
Being in Property Management, how does this affect you?
All Rental Properties that are new builds or had substantial renovations must adhere to the new Legislation from November 2023. Visit the Standards New Zealand website for further information.
SATS now offer an interconnected smoke alarm service for properties as well as installation.
For further information, please reach out to your Account Manager or call 0508 766 532 or email info@sats.co.nz
