Smoke Alarm Installation & Testing

Ocean Grove | Bellarine Peninsula | Surf Coast | Geelong

A working smoke alarm isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’, it’s a legal requirement in Victoria and one of the most important safety features in your home. But it’s not just about ticking a box. Proper installation, correct placement, and regular testing can be the difference between early warning and too late.

At Sam Garland Electrics, we help homeowners across Ocean Grove, Geelong, and the Surf Coast stay compliant, protected, and confident that their smoke alarms are up to scratch.

Services We Offer:

  • Smoke alarm installation – including hardwired systems with backup batteries

  • Battery-only smoke alarm upgrades – replace outdated alarms with safer options

  • Interconnected alarm systems – alarms talk to each other for faster whole-house alerts

  • Annual testing and servicing – for peace of mind (and rental compliance)

  • Alarm placement advice – because no one’s protected by an alarm in the linen cupboard

Why Hardwired Is Best

Hardwired alarms are the gold standard for home safety.

  • They draw power directly from your mains, so they're always on

  • A battery backup kicks in if the power goes out

  • They're far more reliable than battery-only alarms (which rely on you remembering to change the battery)

If you're building new or renovating, this setup is compulsory. For everyone else, it’s just smart.

Placement Matters

The right alarm in the wrong spot is basically a decoration. Proper smoke alarm placement takes into account:

  • Room size and layout

  • Airflow and ventilation

  • Proximity to kitchens, bedrooms, and escape routes

  • Local building codes and Australian Standards

We’ll help you get it right, so if something goes wrong, you'll hear about it fast.

Compliance Snapshot (Victoria)

  • Working smoke alarms must be installed on every level of your home

  • Hardwired with battery backup is required for new builds and major renovations

  • Interconnected alarms are now recommended for maximum safety

  • Landlords must ensure annual testing and replacement every 10 years

Servicing:

Ocean Grove | Bellarine Peninsula | Surf Coast | Geelong | Barwon Heads | Torquay | Drysdale | Clifton Springs | Armstrong Creek and surrounds