smoke alarms

Smoke detectors become mandatory in ALL dwellings as of January 1, 2025

You own a home? Do not wait until January 1, 2025 and already equip your home with a smoke detector.

Because smoke detectors save lives.

You are tenants? The installation of detectors is already compulsory in all rented accommodation in the Brussels-Capital Region.

What changes on 1 January 2025?

• Smoke detectors become mandatory in ALL dwellings, and not only in rented dwellings.
• The detector battery must be integrated and have a 10-year service life
• If four or more self-contained smoke detectors are required in the dwelling, the installation of coupled detectors or a centralized detection system becomes mandatory*.

*Owners who already have four or more self-contained smoke detectors, as per the 2004 Smoke Detector Order, have until January 1, 2028 or to comply.

Why are detectors so important in the event of a fire?

Where to buy a smoke detector?

In most DIY stores and many online stores.

Quel modèle choisir ?

• Choose a model with integrated battery with a 10-year life.
• Opt for a smoke detector optical, they are more efficient.
• Choose a device with a test button.
• Always opt for a CE approved detector that complies with the European standard (NBN) EN 14604. Your detector will thus meet all the necessary quality requirements.

Where to place a detector?

In all locations on the escape route. The evacuation route, or the internal circulation pathway, includes all the places you need cross from your room to the exit in case of fire. So also in corridors and landings.

Install the detectors in the ceiling as smoke is rising. Do not hide them behind curtains or in a corner. They should preferably be as close to the center of the room as possible. If This is not possible, install the detector at least 30 cm from the corner.

In a room with inclined ceilings or gables, install the smoke detector 90 cm from the highest point. Measure from the ridge and attach the smoke detector to the inclined wall.

Always read the manual carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

For added security, install one as well:

• where batteries and chargers are charged
• in the room adjacent to the kitchen
• in the living room
• in all bedrooms
• in the laundry room

Do not install a smoke detector:

• next to a fan, vent or duct
• above a heater
• in the bathroom, kitchen or garage. This would cause false alarms. So install the detector right next to these spaces.

What maintenance?

Dust smoke detectors regularly. Excess dust on the smoke detector could trigger the alarm. It is therefore necessary to regularly dust the detectors smoke using a cloth or vacuum cleaner (low power).

Test the stack of smoke detectors from time to time by pressing the test button. An umbrella or a broom handle will do the trick.

Be sure to do so after several days of absence. Indeed, the battery of the smoke detectors may have been discharged during your absence

Replace the detector every 10 years.

Regardless of the model you choose, all detectors must be replaced ten years after the date of manufacture. Indeed, the sensors of the device no longer work properly after this time. Older devices often trigger false alarms.

Smoke detectors for people with reduced mobility

If you have a disability or know someone who it is useful to know that smoke detectors specific are on the market. Some have been designed especially for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. For the visually impaired, there are sensors voice technology. You will find more information on smoke detectors for persons with disabilities on the website of Personne Handicapées Autonomie Recherché or PHARE https://phare.irisnet.be/

Smoke detectors, user guide

A convenient file to print and store: download the file

Any questions about smoke detectors? Contact our Outreach department at sensibilisation@firebru.brussels.