From November 2024 the NZ Building Code Acceptable Solutions for Protection from Fire (C/AS1 and C/AS2) has been amended to make interconnected smoke alarms the minimum fire safety system for new built homes and consented renovations, citing NZS 4514:2021 – Interconnected smoke alarms for Houses. The standard allows for wirelessly or hard-wired interconnection, using either 10 year long-life battery-powered, DC low voltage or 240v mains powered alarms. 

Below are the key points of the changes to the acceptable solutions but it is important that you read the details in the Standards New Zealand – NZS 4514:2021 interconnected smoke alarms for houses document, click here to download.

KEY POINTS:

• Equipment Requirements: Smoke alarms must be either 10-year long-life battery-operated (non-removable/sealed), DC low voltage or 240v mains-powered and interconnected.
• Compliance Standards: All smoke alarms must comply with recognised standards, including BS EN 14604, AS 3786, UL 217, CAN/ULC S531, or ISO 12239.
• Interconnection: Where multiple smoke alarms are required, they must be interconnected, either wired or wirelessly, so that activation of one triggers all alarms within the household.
• Placement: Smoke alarms must be installed in all bedrooms, living spaces, hallways, and landings within the home.
• Multi-Level Homes: At least one smoke alarm is required on each level of a multi-storey home.
• Features: All smoke alarms must have the ability to be hushed and tested.
• Installation: Smoke alarms should be mounted on or near the ceiling.
• Kitchen Areas: In kitchens or sculleries separated by doors, an alarm suitable for kitchen use, such as a heat alarm, should be installed to reduce nuisance activations.

For full details, refer to NZS 4514:2021 – Interconnected Smoke Alarms for Houses.