Helpful Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Information
Below is some of the current/updated building code information from the state of California as it pertains to smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This is helpful information to make sure you are currently protected in your home in case of a fire or carbon monoxide emergency.
July 1, 2014
Smoke alarms or combination alarms (smoke and carbon monoxide) that are replaced because they are inoperable, must be replaced with a new model that contains the non-replaceable, non-removable battery that will last 10 years. One exception: If an older model smoke alarm device is already in the inventory of an owner, managing agent, contractor, wholesaler, or retailer, on or before July 1, 2014, this older model may be installed up until July 1, 2015.
January 1, 2015
Battery operated smoke alarms units installed after this date must comply with the following:
- Date of manufacture displayed
- Date of installation displayed
- Incorporate a hush feature
- Contain a non-removable 10-year battery
January 1, 2016
Additional alarms must be installed, as needed, to ensure compliance with the current building standards. Currently, the California Building Code requires:
- One smoke alarm on each story and in the basement.
- One smoke alarm in each bedroom.
- An additional alarm in each hallway and/or stairway that leads directly to the sleeping areas.
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a maximum fine of two hundred dollars ($200).
Safety tips for your maintenance checklist:
- Replace battery operated and hardwired units every 10 years. Smoke alarms don’t last forever.
- Inspect, test and clean smoke alarms at least once every year. Test not only the battery, but also with canned smoke to insure the device is operable.
- Never paint over a smoke alarm.
- In addition to knowing your local building code, read the manufacturer’s instructions for placement recommendations.
- To reduce your liability as a Property Manager, consider hiring a contractor for installation and maintenance issues relating to smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.