Starting from January 1, 2026, new responsibilities concerning fire alarms have been implemented in Finland. According to the Ministry of Interior, every floor or level of a residence that is at least 60 square meters must have a minimum of one fire alarm installed. The alarms must be fixed to the ceiling at least half a meter away from the walls. When deciding where to place the alarms, factors such as the room's shape, ventilation, and the audibility of the alarm sound must be considered, emphasizing the importance of proper installation to ensure safety.

The Fire Safety Act stipulates that the building owner is responsible for ensuring that the fire alarms are kept functional. This includes changing the batteries and replacing the devices when necessary. In shared housing situations, such as apartment buildings or row houses, this responsibility typically falls on the housing company, which is expected to properly maintain the fire alarms throughout the property. However, the residents also have a role to play in fire safety.

Residents are obliged to promptly report any malfunctions or issues they observe with the fire alarms to the building owner. This means that, while the housing company is generally responsible for maintenance, tenants have a duty to communicate any problems that could hinder fire safety measures. This new regulation not only aims to enhance safety in residential buildings but also increases the shared responsibility between landlords and tenants, ensuring that everyone plays a part in maintaining a safe living environment.