Frequently asked questions

​What are the laws and best practices regarding smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
 
Smoke Detectors 
CA Building Code Section 310.9.1
All residences must have a smoke alarm:

• In every bedroom
• Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms
• On each level of home, including basement
• Smoke detectors must be approved by State Fire Marshal
• Rental owners should follow manufacturers placement instructions.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors/Smoke Detectors 
CA Health & Safety Code 13261 et seq.

• Carbon monoxide (CO) devices must be installed outside each sleeping area of the home including basement
• Carbon monoxide detectors are not required in each bedroom.
• For maximum protection against CO gas, it is recommended that a CO device be installed in each sleeping room
• CO detectors must be approved by the State Fire Marshal
• Owners should follow manufacturer’s placement instructions.

Entering Units to Test Smoke & CO Detectors 
CA Health & Safety Code 13261 et seq.

• California Health & Safety code allows rental owners to enter units to test smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
• Owners should follow 24 hours advance written notice procedure to enter.
• EBRHA recommends testing smoke and CO detectors twice a year.
• Owners can address any lease violations encountered during smoke/CO detector inspection, but the owner should not inspect private areas in the unit.
• Owners should include smoke and CO detector addendum to inform tenant of responsibilities.