Not all smoke alarms are created equal. I found this out the hard way after moving into an older rental — it had just one alarm in the hallway, and it wasn’t even interconnected. It might’ve met the minimum legal standard back then, but it didn’t make me feel secure.

If you're upgrading or building new, it’s worth understanding the difference between standalone, wireless, and interconnected smoke alarms — because the right setup can make all the difference in a real emergency.

Standalone Smoke Alarms

Standalone alarms are the most basic type. They detect smoke and sound off locally — meaning only that individual unit will beep if there's a fire nearby.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
  
  

• Easy to install
  
  

• No syncing or tech required
  
  

Cons:

• If the fire starts in another room, you might not hear the alarm in time
  
  

• No whole-home alerting system
  
  

These are suitable only in the smallest of dwellings or as backups in secondary rooms.

Interconnected Smoke Alarms

This is the modern gold standard — and now a requirement in most new builds and major renovations in NZ.

Interconnected alarms “talk” to each other. If one detects smoke, all units will sound, alerting everyone in the house regardless of where the smoke is.

There are two types:

• Hardwired interconnects – require professional installation during the build
  
  

• Wireless interconnects – great for retrofitting or homes where rewiring isn’t practical
  
  

If you’re unsure what suits your space, have a look at available smoke alarms that offer wireless connectivity — it’s more accessible than many people realise.

Wireless Smoke Alarms

These are a type of interconnected alarm, but they don’t rely on cables to communicate.

Pros:

• Easy DIY installation
  
  

• Expandable — you can add more units later
  
  

• Great for rental properties or renovations
  
  

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than standalone units
  
  

• Some models may require syncing steps or battery monitoring
  
  

Wireless smoke alarms are a fantastic option for older homes that still need to meet updated fire safety requirements.

Final Word

When it comes to choosing smoke alarms, think beyond cost — and prioritise safety. Whether you’re building new, upgrading an old villa, or just improving your flat, interconnected or wireless models give you better protection and peace of mind. Don’t wait for a near-miss to discover your setup wasn’t enough.