Smoke Detector/CO2 Code

SMOKE ALARM/ CARBON MONOXIDE S.O.P.

When replacing a CO2 detector, install a Kiddie combo alarm. Do not install a single CO2 alarm.

Replace CO2 alarms every 7 years.

Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Install Kiddie 10 year alarms.

Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling 4" from the wall; wall mounts should be 4-12" from the ceiling. Do not install near draft areas (windows, vents.).

HARD WIRED SMOKE DETECTORS

No code except for new construction. More units do not have existing hard wired smoke detectors. They would be cheaper to replace with but then we would have two types of smoke detectors.

SMOKE ALARM CODE SYNOPSIS

As of January 1, 2016 current with local building standards.

Replacement Smoke Alarms to meet all new requirements.

In California, smoke alarms are to be installed on each floor, in each sleeping room and in the immediate vicinity outside of the bedrooms (i.e. a hallway).

Recommended replace smoke detectors every ten years, however there is no definitive code. As long as they still function there is no requirement.

CARBON MONOXIDE CODE SYNOPSIS

Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom(s).

On every level of a dwelling unit including basements.

Replace every 7 years; however there is no definitive code. 10 year combo kiddie suffices.

SMOKE ALARM CODE

All battery-operated smoke alarms to contain a non-replaceable battery that lasts at least ten years. [Health & S C §13114(b)]

When an existing smoke alarm no longer works, the replacement smoke alarm is to meet all new requirements.

Multi-unit residential property or a single family residence (SFR) rental property, are required to install, maintain and test smoke alarms on their property. [Health & S C §13113.7(d)(2)]

Owners (or property managers, as owners' agents) are required to ensure smoke alarms are operable when a new tenancy is created. [Health & S C §13113.7(d)(2)(B)]

To ensure safe conditions, residential rental and lease agreement forms include a provision requiring the landlord to comply with all safety ordinance and regulations, including smoke alarm law. [See first tuesday Forms 550 §7.3 and551 §7.2]

However, tenants are responsible for notifying the owner or property manager if the smoke alarm becomes inoperable. The owner is not in violation of smoke alarm requirements if they are unaware of a malfunction in the smoke alarm after the tenant is given possession. [Health & S C §13113.7(d)(2)(B)]

Beginning January 1, 2016 owners of any residential rental property are to install additional smoke alarms to ensure devices are located in accordance with current local building standards. [Health & S C §13113.7(d)(3)]

Operable hardwired and battery-operated smoke alarms which were approved and listed when they were installed don't need to be replaced immediately. [Health & S C §§13113.7(a)(4); 13113.7(d)(3)]