Executive summary: This original Wanlin Fire editorial guide explains the verified source for Australia — Western Australia. It is not copied source text and is not legal advice. The linked publication remains authoritative.
What does the source establish?
- Mains-powered smoke alarms became mandatory for new residential buildings and extensions from 1 July 1997.
- Existing dwellings must have compliant alarms before sale, rent or hire under the stated requirements.
- Alarms must meet AS 3786, follow Building Code placement and generally be permanently connected to mains power.
What should a buyer, designer or integrator verify?
- Check construction, renovation, ownership-transfer and rental dates.
- Use a licensed electrician for mains-powered installation or disconnection.
- Confirm whether the narrow ten-year lithium battery exception applies and document the reason.
Official source and evidence boundary
Jurisdiction: State residential building, sale, rent and hire requirements
Issuing body: Department of Fire and Emergency Services Western Australia
Official source: Read the current official publication
Reviewed by: Wanlin Fire Technical Team
Codes and enforcement change. Confirm the current code edition, building use, municipal requirements and authority interpretation before approval or installation.
Frequently asked questions
Is this rule valid across the whole country?
No. The province or state boundary shown above is essential, and municipal or project rules may be stricter.
What product evidence is needed?
Verify exact-model certification, power, interconnection, acoustic and accessible alerting, installation documentation and traceability.
What should be retained in the project file?
Retain the code basis, product certificate, datasheet, layout, commissioning evidence and maintenance allocation.
Product-selection record
Record destination, jurisdiction, building type, dates affecting compliance, detector technology, power, interconnection, applicable standards and maintenance plan.