Smoke Detectors: Chandler vs Goodyear

Where do smoke alarms have to be installed in a Chandler home?

Under the 2018 IFC Section 907.2.11 and 2018 IRC Section R314 adopted by reference in Chandler City Code Chapter 19, smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on each story of the dwelling including basements. New-construction alarms must be hardwired, interconnected, and have a battery backup.

Who is responsible for the smoke alarm in a Chandler rental, the tenant or the landlord?

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 36-1637, the tenant is responsible for keeping the smoke alarm operable, including replacing batteries, unless the tenant gives written notice to the landlord that the alarm is malfunctioning. Once the landlord receives that written notice, the landlord must repair or replace the alarm. Confirm any local amendments with Chandler Fire Prevention at 480-782-2120.

Does unincorporated Maricopa County require smoke detectors in homes?

Yes. Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 requires an approved smoke detector in each new residential housing unit during construction, and in any existing unit where a sleeping area is remodeled under permit. The Maricopa County Planning & Development Department enforces this through building permits and the adopted International Residential Code, which adds placement and power-source requirements under Section R314.

Who is responsible for maintaining smoke detectors in a Maricopa County rental?

Section 36-1637 places the duty on the tenant to maintain and keep the smoke detector operable. Once the tenant provides the landlord with written notice of a malfunction, the landlord is responsible for the repair. The landlord must also give the tenant written notice of the tenant's responsibilities under the statute.

Where do smoke alarms have to be installed in a new home in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Maricopa County enforces the International Residential Code Section R314 as part of its adopted building codes. R314 requires smoke alarms inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on every story of the dwelling, including basements. New construction units must be hard-wired with battery backup and interconnected so all alarms sound when one is triggered.