All residential properties being sold in Queensland need to have compliant smoke alarms installed by settlement.
The compliance standard is contained in regulations. Smoke alarms must be interconnected, in every bedroom and hallway in the property.
Failure to install compliant smoke alarms allows the buyer to claim a penalty of 0.15 per cent of the purchase price payable at settlement.
But don’t be alarmed, the Buyer cannot terminate the contract.
The seller also commits an offence under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990 (Qld).
Buyers have an additional right to access the property to inspect whether compliant smoke alarms have been installed.
The seller is under no obligation to provide proof to the buyer that compliant smoke alarms are installed.
If complaint smoke alarms are not installed, the buyer can claim the penalty and must arrange for their installation immediately following settlement to avoid being fined.
If the property does not have an approved electrical safety switch, the buyer has no right to claim compensation or terminate the contract and must install one at least three months following settlement.