Poorly installed insulation poses fire risk

Ceiling insulation must be professionally installed to strict safety guidelines or it may become a serious fire hazard, the West Australian Commissioner for Consumer Protection has warned.

The commissioner, Anne Driscoll, says the Federal Government’s energy efficiency subsidies have boosted the number of households having ceiling insulation installed.

She fears the increased demand may attract inexperienced installers to the industry, thereby exposing some homes to a greater fire risk if the product isn’t installed properly.

“We’re finding in some cases the insulation is too close to electric cables, ceiling fans, downlights and their transformers, creating a serious fire danger in the home,” Driscoll says.

“Although most ceiling insulation is fire resistant to some extent, there’s still a possibility of ignition if the insulation covers these electrical devices in the roof space or is exposed to the heat generated by them.”

WA’s Fire and Emergency Services Authority reports an average of at least one roof space fire every week in the state, and fire investigation officer John Haddon says these fires are particularly dangerous as the smoke is above smoke alarms.

“Often people only know their house is on fire when flaming material comes through air conditioning vents or the ceiling collapses,” Haddon says.

Driscoll emphasises that there’s no concern if insulation is installed correctly and in accordance with safety standards.