“The danger of choosing one of these packages is that the focus of the provider moves away from the actual compliance issue at hand, and instead spends more time and energy on the add-on services,” Ms Worchurst said.
The additional services can include safety switch testing and corded window compliance, which are incorporated as value-adds to make smoke alarm compliance packages appear more attractive.
Ms Worchurst said added: “Landlords are attracted by the perceived value, and don’t notice that the package price doesn’t include important services like replacement of missing or damaged alarms, and they will need to fork out extra for them anyway, resulting in a greater total expense than a specialised smoke alarm compliance package with SAS.
“Smoke alarm compliance is such an important issue. It is vital it doesn’t get lost among other services that aren’t required by law, or are time-consuming and detract from the core focus of the service visit.”
Other services can include checking each window for loose blind cords which is not required by legislation and is only precautionary in nature, providing no extra value.
Instead, property managers and landlords are recommended to enrol their properties in a comprehensive annual smoke alarm service with an all-inclusive fee, to receive the best value for money as well as specialised service.
This way, focus remains on smoke alarm compliance, helping to reduce paperwork and save money in the long run.
Smoke Alarm Solutions is currently offering ‘two years servicing for the price of one’ on their $99 Platinum Annual Smoke Alarm Service, for any new property enrolled prior to the end of March 2017.
For more information, call 1300 852 301 or email [email protected] to find out more.