When do the building code changes for smoke alarms take affect?

The changes to the building code start in November 2023 which a transition period of 12 months. In the transition period you may still follow the previous requirements to be compliant but most builders and electricians, large group build companies and home owners have already started to comply with the new standards.

Do I need a mains powered smoke alarm to meet the new building code?

There is some confusion in NZ about the changes to the new building code but it is simply down to the language used. The changes require that all smoke alarms must be photoelectric and interconnected, the misunderstanding is in the word “interconnected”. Some people think this means they MUST be hardwired (or mains powered) but this is not the case.

The code says “Equipment required must be either 10 year long-life battery-operated (non-removable/sealed) or 240v hardwired mains powered, interconnected smoke alarms, so this means either the 2107 battery operated smoke alarm or the 2203 Mains (hardwired) smoke alarm will comply.

A copy of the NZ standards NZD 4514:2021 is available here or on our website here.

Where do I need to install smoke alarms to be compliant?

Smoke alarms must be located in all bedrooms, living spaces, hallways and landings within the building. In a multi-level household, there shall be at least one smoke alarm on each level. Where a kitchen or scullery is separated from the living spaces and hallways by doors that can be closed, an alarm specified by its manufacturer as suitable for a kitchen shall be located in the kitchen. This may be a heat alarm to avoid nuisance activations.