NZ Legislation for New Homes & Major Renovations
From November 2024, the New Zealand Building Code’s fire protection guidance (C/AS1 and C/AS2) has been updated to require interconnected smoke alarms as the minimum fire safety system for all newly constrcuted homes and major renovations in New Zealand.
This change references NZS 4514:2021 – Interconnected Smoke Alarms for Houses, which outlines how these alarms must be selected, powered, installed, and maintained.
Whether you’re building a new home or undertaking renovations that require a Code of Compliance, you must adhere to the updated standards outlined in NZS 4514:2021. You should visit Standards New Zealand for more detailed information or consult with a certified technician, as this is general advice and may not be suitable for your specific needs.
What to Look For in Interconnect Smoke Alarms in NZ
- Photoelectric sensors – Ideal for detecting slow, smouldering fires common in homes.
- Interconnectivity – Either hard‑wired (240 V with battery backup) or wireless RF link.
- Long‑life power – 10‑year sealed lithium batteries or mains power with rechargeable backup.
- Interconnect smoke alarms for kitchens/garages – Less prone to false alarms from cooking.
- Hush/test buttons – Essential for silencing nuisance alarms.
- Optional smart features – App notifications, remote hush/test, strobe/bed‑shaker integration for the hearing‑impaired.
Top 3 Wireless Interconnect Alarms that we would recommend you!
Wireless 10 Year Interconnect Smoke Alarm – ORCA
- Photoelectric sensor – best at sensing smoke from slow smouldering fires
- Ideal for living rooms, hallways and bedrooms
- Test button
- Hush feature
- Long-life built-in lithium battery
- Extra loud warning tone, Low battery warning
- Black colour option is available on request
- Fully compliant with NZ Building Code (Certified to EN14604:2005)
- Meets NZ Government 2016 Rental Housing Legislation, and complies with NZS 4514:2021
- Warranty – 10 Years
Interconnect Smoke Alarm Wireless 10Y Lithium Battery
- This smoke alarm can be silenced with any existing remote control in your home
- Collection Type: Smoke
- Battery life: 10 Years
- Sensor Type: Photoelectric
- Silence Duration: 9 minutes
- Infrared Silence: Yes
- Indicator Light: Alarm, fault, and operation indicator
- Interconnected Units: Supports up to 24 units
- Compliance Standard: AS 3786:2014
- Warranty: 10 years
Interconnect Smoke Alarm – Brilliant
- Wireless interconnectivity, surface mount smoke alarm
- Powered by 10 year lithium battery (non-replaceable)
- Photoelectric sensing technology
- Easy on/off switch located under unit
- Stand alone unit, or wirelessly interconnect up to 22 smoke and/or carbon monoxide units
- Mesh bug filter to protect sensing chamber
- Electronics coating to prevent build up of heat and condensation caused by humidity and high temperatures
- Sensor interference filter technology to reduce false alarms
- Anti-static chamber to repel dust and reduce false alarms
- Single button test and hush feature, with low battery hush
- Fully supervised, secured and monitored via wifi
- ActivFire certified, AS 3786:2014
- 10 year warranty on the battery
Before You Buy Smoke Alarms
- Check Complaiance Standards: Acceptable alarms must meet internationally recognised standards: UL 217, CAN/ULC S531, BS EN 14604, AS 3786, ISO 1223 or NZS 4514:2021 and Must include a hush/test button for temporarily silencing nuisance alerts
- Count Your Alarms: How many do you need? (Minimum: Hallway outside each bedroom + every bedroom + each level of the house).
- Check Existing Alarms: If replacing old interconnected alarms (especially hardwired with RF), check compatibility. Starting fresh is often easiest.
- Consider Placement: Ensure alarms are placed correctly (ceiling, away from corners, bathrooms, kitchens). Get heat alarms for kitchens/garages if needed (available in these ranges too).
- Shop Around: Check reputable NZ suppliers.
Why this matters
- New Homes & Renovations: Post-Nov 1, 2024, compliance with NZS 4514:2021 is mandatory under the Building Code.
- Older Homes: Any significant alteration (e.g. adding a fireplace or renovating the kitchen) requires installing a compliant interconnected alarm system.
- Safety Impact: Interconnection ensures early warnings are heard throughout the house, crucial when fires start in less frequented areas like bedrooms or the garage.
Critical Features to Look For
- RF Interconnection (Not Just Wi-Fi): Ensures alarms work if internet/power fails
- Hush Button: Silences nuisance alarms (e.g., burnt toast)
- 75–110 dB(A) Sound: Audible through closed doors
Maintenance
- Monthly: Test all alarms.
- 6-Monthly: Vacuum with soft brush.
- Replace Every 10 Years: Mandatory for non-removable battery units.
