Tally Ho homes often include split-level layouts, extended living areas and renovated ceilings—changes that can leave smoke alarms missing in key hallways or too far from bedrooms. A targeted placement check helps reduce the chance of sleeping through a fire.
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We visually confirm smoke detectors are installed across each level and in relevant internal areas, noting any rooms, corridors or level changes where no detector is present. This matters because a single missing alarm can delay warning time, especially when doors are closed at night.
We assess whether detectors appear positioned to protect sleeping areas, including hallways outside bedrooms and routes that family members use to exit. Early warning is most critical at night, and placement along bedroom corridors can improve audibility before smoke spreads.
Where the home has internal stairs or step-down living zones (common in Tally Ho renovations), we check that each level has coverage rather than relying on one alarm to serve multiple floors. Smoke can stratify and move differently between levels, so coverage gaps matter.
We note detectors that are too close to cooking areas, where nuisance alarms can lead to occupants disabling them. The report flags locations that may be triggering false alarms and suggests more suitable positioning to balance safety with usability.
We observe whether placement is affected by bulkheads, high ceilings, beams, or ceiling fans that may disrupt smoke flow. These features can be introduced during upgrades and can reduce how effectively smoke reaches the alarm if the detector is poorly positioned.
Our report lists installed detector locations (as observed), highlights apparent coverage gaps, and provides practical recommendations for improvement. Where upgrades or repositioning are needed, we advise engaging a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with current requirements.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Often, yes. Many Tally Ho homes have internal stairs, step-down lounges or upper-level bedroom wings. Relying on a single alarm to cover multiple levels can leave delays in warning because smoke may not travel quickly between floors. Our assessment visually checks detector presence and placement across each level and identifies apparent gaps, particularly around bedroom areas and stair connections.
This service is a visual assessment focused on confirming presence and placement. We record where detectors are installed and whether coverage appears appropriate for the layout, including halls and levels. Operational testing, interconnection checks and electrical compliance work should be handled by a licensed electrician. If we see obvious issues, we’ll document them and recommend the right next step.
You’ll receive a clear summary of the detectors we observed, their locations, and any areas where placement appears insufficient for early warning. We also note practical concerns such as proximity to kitchens, ceiling obstructions, or level changes that can affect performance. The report provides recommendations you can use to plan upgrades or repositioning with a qualified electrician.
In Tally Ho, older homes are often updated with rear extensions, reconfigured hallways and open-plan living. During these changes, alarms can be removed, left behind in old corridors, or end up too far from bedrooms. Ceiling bulkheads and new lighting can also affect ideal placement. Our assessment focuses on whether the current alarm locations still suit the updated layout, not the original floor plan.
Time varies with the size and complexity of the home, especially if it’s multi-level or has additions. For many family homes in Tally Ho, the visual check is relatively quick, but we take care to walk each level, hallway and bedroom zone so nothing is missed. We’ll confirm the scope when you book and explain what access we’ll need on the day.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections will visually confirm smoke detector presence and placement across levels, bedrooms and hallways—ideal for Tally Ho homes with extensions or split-level layouts. Call 0413 163 187.