Friendly Hills and surrounding ares Realtor Marti Jordan brings here a summery of the current requirements on smoke detectors. 

Realtor Marti Jordan reminds that the purpose of smoke detectors is to detect smoke and/or carbon monoxide with a audible warning in the early stages of fire or gas leak so residents can escape as early as possible. 

As of January 1, 2014, landlords cannot make the tenant responsible for testing or maintaining the smoke alarms. It is the landlords responsibility. 

From July 1, 2015 all smoke detectors (both 120 VAC hardwired and battery operated) must show the date of manufacture, and include a nonreplaceable and nonremovable battery that is capable of powering the smoke alarm for at least 10 years. 

From July 1, 2015 ALL old smoke detectors that are solely powered by batteries must be replaced with those that contain a sealed battery that is rated to last 10 years. 

The number and location of smoke alarms is specified in section 310.9.1.4 of the California Building Code.

-One smoke alarm should be placed on each floor in non-sleeping areas.
-In addition, one smoke alarm must be installed in each room where sleeping occurs
-and one smoke alarm should be located in each hallway that leads directly to sleeping rooms. 

Below is an excellent illustration of the law requirements from The Real Estate Inspection Company 

 

This information was pulled from following sources: 

California State Fire Marshal Information Bulletin 13-006: http://osfm.fire.ca.gov/informationbulletin/pdf/2013/13-006_SB745_Smoke_Alarm.pdf

CA Fire Safety Education: http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_carbonmonoxide.php

Demand Media, Gus Stephens: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/california-building-code-smoke-detectors-66921.html  

The Real Estate Expection Company: http://sdinspect.com/health-and-safety/smoke-detector-requirements-2/  

If you have questions to this of any real estate home for sale related questions don’t hesitate to contact Friendly Hills and surrounding areas top producing Realtor and Real Estate agent Marti Jordan.