Don't forget to check your smoke alarms

With winter upon us, it's a good time to make sure your smoke alarms are working properly.

Smoke alarms provide a vital early warning to help escape fires, and the CFA recommends all alarms should be replaced after 10 years, and those with replaceable batteries to be changed yearly.

Renters are also advised to ensure the property they rent has operational smoke alarms.

Consumer Affairs Victoria, CFA and FRV are urging renters to report faulty or non-operational smoke alarms to their rental provider immediately, as broken or faulty smoke alarms are considered urgent repairs under Victoria's rental laws.

Combined data from CFA and FRV shows firefighters responded to more than 3600 residential fires across Victoria during the 2024-25 financial year.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan AFSM said working smoke alarms provided critical early warning.

"If you are renting, test your alarms regularly, never remove or disable them and report any faults as soon as they are identified," Jason said.

"CFA recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom and living area, in addition to the minimum legal requirements."

FRV Acting Deputy Commissioner Community Safety and Operational Training Mark Carter AFSM said that smoke alarms should be interconnected throughout a home so all alarms sound when one is activated.

"Whether you rent or own your home, a working smoke alarm provides early warning and time for you and your family to escape safely if a fire takes hold," said A/DC Carter.

"A small fire can grow and involve a whole room in just a few minutes. Working smoke alarms reduce the risk of serious injury or death, as well as property loss and damage."

Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria Nicole Rich said under Victoria's rental laws, rental providers must ensure smoke alarms are correctly installed and in working condition.

"Since November 2025 it is also mandatory for rental providers to ensure smoke alarms in every residential rental property are tested at least once every 12 months," Nicole said.

"Renters should immediately notify their rental provider or property manager if an alarm is faulty or stops working."

For more information about smoke alarm requirements, urgent repairs and renters' rights, visit Consumer Affairs Victoria at Smoke alarms and fire safety - at consumer.vic.gov.au