TL;DR
- By 1 January 2027, all existing private homes, townhouses and units in QLD must have interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallways that connect bedrooms, and at least one on each storey. Queensland Government+1
- Photoelectric only (no ionisation). Comply with AS 3786-2014. Smoke Alarm Compliance
- If replacing a mains-powered alarm, it must be replaced with mains-powered alarm. 10-year sealed lithium alarms are allowed where appropriate, usually installed in bedrooms or locations that have no existing hardwired alarms. Smoke Alarm Compliance
Don’t leave it to December 2026 – there will be a huge rush, prices and wait times will increase.
Need help? Book your smoke alarm upgrade in Brisbane (fixed-price, compliant install. 10 year warranties).
What the law requires
Queensland is phasing in the final stage of smoke alarm reforms. By 1 Jan 2027, all existing homes must have interconnected photoelectric alarms in the required locations (see below). Interconnection means when one alarm sounds, they all sound. Required locations include all bedrooms, interconnecting halls and on each level of the dwelling.
Standards & type
- Photoelectric alarms only; AS 3786-2014 compliant.
- Ionisation alarms are out and cannot be installed.
Where alarms must go (minimum)
Install alarms in:
- Every bedroom
- Hallways that connect bedrooms
- At least one on each storey (even if there are no bedrooms on that storey)
Positioning tips (common sense + manufacturer guidance):
- Mount on the ceiling where possible; avoid dead air zones near corners/AC diffusers.
- Follow manufacturer clearances from walls, lights and fans.
Power options (hardwired vs 10-year battery)
- If an existing alarm is hardwired (240V) and needs replacing, it must be replaced with a hardwired photoelectric alarm.
In other cases, photoelectric 10-year sealed lithium alarms can be used (and interconnected – often wirelessly). Always ensure interconnection works across all required locations.
Upgrade steps & timeline (don’t leave it late)
Now – Audit
- Count bedrooms and storeys; note hallways that connect bedrooms.
- Check type & age (replace anything 10+ years old, or faulty).
- Note power: which are hardwired, which are battery.
Next – Plan
4) Choose photoelectric, AS 3786-2014 alarms; plan interconnection (wired or wireless).
5) Decide on hardwired vs 10-year battery for each location (respecting the “replace hardwired with hardwired” rule).
Book – Install & verify
6) Book a licensed installer to fit, label and test interconnection.
7) Test monthly, vacuum annually, and replace the whole unit at end of service life.
Alternately you can contact us , we can check your existing alarms and quote to bring your home up to QLD standards using our quality alarms with a 10 year warranty.
Deadline: be fully compliant by 1 January 2027.
Costs in Brisbane (transparent ranges)
Final pricing depends on property size, access, and whether cabling is required. For a quality alarm these are the expected prices
| Scope | Typical range (inc. labour & basic materials) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment & plan | $0–$149 | Often waived with installation. Not charged with Sorted Electrical |
| Per alarm (supply & fit) | $180–$280 | Photoelectric, interconnected, including compliance certificate. With Sorted Electrical you also receive a free wall controller. |
| Wireless interconnection module | $40–$90 each | Model-dependent. Included with Sorted Electrical |
| Hardwired alarm replacement | $190–$320 each | Replace like-for-like (240V) |
| Full-home upgrade (3–6 alarms) | $700–$1,600+ | Typical 3-bedroom home. Fixed price quote with free onsite check with Sorted Electrical |
| Larger homes (7–10+ alarms) | $1,400–$3,000+ | More bedrooms/storeys = more units. Fixed price quote with free onsite check with Sorted Electrical |
We provide fixed-price quotes and install to QLD requirements (photoelectric, interconnected, correct locations). If a circuit or board work is needed for hardwired units, we’ll quote that separately and follow AS/NZS 3000. 99% of the time a switchboard upgrade or additional circuit is not required. For more information on switchboards & safety switches please see our blog.
FAQs
Do I need to replace alarms that “still work”?
If they’re ionisation, over 10 years old, not photoelectric, not interconnected, or in the wrong locations, then yes — upgrade to meet 2027 rules.
Can I mix hardwired and 10-year battery alarms?
Yes, provided they’re photoelectric, AS 3786-2014, and interconnected across all required locations. If an existing alarm is hardwired, replacement must be hardwired.
Where exactly should I mount them?
At minimum: every bedroom, connecting hallways, and one per storey. Follow manufacturer placement rules for clearances/airflow.
Why photoelectric?
They respond quickly to smouldering fires common in homes (upholstery, bedding), and are the standard required in QLD.
What happens if I’m non-compliant?
For rentals and sales there have already been enforcement actions under earlier phases; the 2027 deadline extends requirements to all existing homes. Best practice is to upgrade early and keep records of installation and testing.
Ready to book your upgrade?
We supply and install photoelectric, interconnected alarms across Brisbane and provide fixed-price quotes. We’ll map your home, install in the correct locations, interconnect the lot, test and label – so you’re ready well before 1 Jan 2027.
