Smoke detectors: what tenants need to do

In Brussels, all homes must be fitted with compliant smoke detectors. The landlord supplies, installs and replaces them. The tenant makes sure they stay in working order.

Your part

• Dust the detectors regularly, without paint or products on them.
• Test them with the test button, for example once a month.
• Never remove them, even when they go off while cooking: air the room instead.

A detector that beeps or stops working

A short, regular beep usually signals a low battery or a detector at the end of its life. Tell your manager in writing: it is an obligation, and replacing it is the landlord's job.

Where are they?

On the ceiling, in every room or corridor you pass through between your bedroom and the front door, and at least one per floor. There are normally none in the kitchen or bathroom, where steam would cause false alarms.

The Brussels Fire Brigade offers free home prevention visits.

Source: be.brussels, smoke detectors