If something goes wrong in a rental, the first question is simple. Were the smoke alarms working?
The answer can't be "I think so." It needs to be a dated record.
Here's what I'd want on file for every property on a rent roll.
The six things to keep on file
- 01
The date of the last check.
Not the year. The date.
- 02
How many alarms, and where.
Hallway, each bedroom level, near sleeping areas.
- 03
What type each one is.
Hardwired, 10-year lithium, or replaceable battery.
- 04
The expiry date of each alarm.
It's printed on the back. Most last about 10 years.
- 05
Photos.
Each alarm, in place, with the test done.
- 06
What was fixed.
Any alarm replaced, moved or added, and why.
When to check
- At least once a year.
- At every change of tenant.
- After any reno or electrical work.
- When a tenant reports a chirp or fault.
What the rules say
The rules for smoke alarms in SA homes and rentals can change. They can depend on the age of the home and any work done since.
Don't guess. Check the current rules with Consumer and Business Services SA, or ask your electrician to check each property against them.
Where it usually goes wrong
- A tenant pulls out a battery because it chirped at 3am.
- An alarm is 12 years old and nobody looked at the date.
- A reno moved a wall, and now the alarm is in the wrong room.
- The tradie fixed it but sent no photos, so there's no proof.
How I handle it for agencies
You send me the list. I book each tenant. I test every alarm, fix what fails and send a dated photo record for every property. Anything over your agreed limit is quoted first.
Want every property on file?
Call 0417 397 165 or set up maintenance for your rent roll.