As of the beginning of 2026, battery-operated smoke detectors in apartments will become the responsibility of the property owner under the Rescue Act. The aim of this change is to improve fire safety.
A functioning smoke detector is an important part of an apartment’s fire safety. Tenants are also responsible for ensuring the fire safety of their apartment and for checking the smoke detector’s functionality. Tenants must immediately report any smoke detector malfunctions to TYS.
In TYS apartments, the installations concern battery-operated smoke detectors, which were previously the responsibility of the tenant. TYS will begin installing the smoke detectors in summer 2025, with all installations scheduled for completion by the end of 2025.
Some TYS housing locations already have smoke detector systems connected to the electrical grid, which are maintained by TYS. No changes will be made to these locations. You can find a list of these locations here.
When Will the Smoke Detectors Be Installed?
Smoke detectors will be installed in phases in the following locations:
- Ispuri
- Kiertotähti
- Kotivalo
- Kuikkulankatu
- Kuunsilta (apartments not yet renovated)
- Nummenranta
- Pilvilinna
- Tavasti
- Student Village East
- Student Village West
TYS will notify tenants of their building’s installation schedule by email two weeks before installation.
How Are Smoke Detectors Maintained? What Should Tenants Do?
TYS is responsible for replacing the batteries in the smoke detectors when needed. Any inspections will be communicated to tenants separately.
Tenants are responsible for testing and cleaning the smoke detector according to TYS’s instructions, and immediately report any malfunctions to TYS.
Tenants must test that the smoke detector is working once a month by pressing the test button. If the device beeps, it is functioning properly. The smoke detector should also be cleaned at least twice a year by vacuuming the dust from the device. The surface can be wiped with a damp cloth. Detailed cleaning instructions are available HERE.
Tenants must not remove the battery or the smoke detector itself. They must also not replace the battery or take any actions that could interfere with the detector’s operation. Damaged or broken smoke detectors due to tenant actions will be charged according to TYS’s compensation price list.
What Should I Do If the Smoke Detector Beeps?
If the smoke detector beeps approximately once a minute, the battery is likely low. TYS maintenance will replace it. If this occurs, submit a fault report via the tenant portal during weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. At other times, call the maintenance emergency number 0500 523 759 (local/mobile rates apply), or Iltakajo at 02 275 2138 (local/mobile rates apply).
