Home owners are now required, by Regulation 76B under the Development Act, 1993, to install battery-powered or hard-wired (240v mains powered) smoke alarms. In a rented property the owner is responsible for the supply and maintenance of a working smoke alarm.The installation of hard-wired smoke alarms in new houses has been compulsory since 1 January 1995.

The smoke alarms must be located so as to provide reasonable warning to the occupants of all bedrooms so that they may safely evacuate in the event of a fire. Home buyers have six months from the date of transfer of the title to install alarms that are hard wired to the 240v power supply or powered by 10 year life, non-replaceable, non-removable, permanently connected batteries.

The Fire Service only recommends the installation of photo optical/photo electric smoke alarms. Smoke alarms for the hearing impaired are available through the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, tel. 8203 8333.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

Recommended Safety Checks:

• Test smoke alarm monthly


• Clean alarms at least 6-monthly (a soft brush attached to your vacuum cleaner is effective)


• Replace batteries annually (with the manufacturer's recommended battery)


• Any alarm which is more than 10 years old should be replaced. Up to two Ionisation smoke alarms may be disposed of in the rubbish bin per collection. No restriction on photo electric type


• If there is more then one smoke alarm in the house, they should be interconnected so that if one is activated then they all sound


• Develop a home fire escape plan for your house. If a key is needed to unlock a door from the inside, then it should be left in the lock whenever anyone is home


• Assistance with the above  may be available through local council Home Assist Program