Smoke Detectors: Doral vs Hialeah

Where do I have to install smoke alarms in a Doral home?

Under Florida Building Code Residential Section R314, smoke alarms must be installed inside every sleeping room, in the hallway or area immediately outside each separate sleeping area, and on every additional story including basements and habitable attics. New-construction alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so that one activation sounds all alarms.

Do I need a 10-year battery smoke alarm in my Doral rental?

Yes, if you are installing a new battery-only alarm. Florida Statute 553.883 requires that any battery-powered smoke alarm installed on or after January 1, 2015 as a replacement use a non-removable, non-replaceable 10-year sealed lithium battery. Hardwired alarms with battery backup are exempt from the 10-year sealed requirement, but the FBC R314 hardwiring and interconnection rules still apply.

Where must smoke alarms be installed in a Hialeah home?

Florida Building Code R314 requires alarms inside each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every story including basements. New construction requires interconnected, hardwired alarms with battery backup.

Can I use replaceable 9V batteries in my Hialeah smoke alarm?

No. Florida Statute 553.883 requires any newly installed or replacement battery-powered smoke alarm to use a non-removable, non-replaceable 10-year sealed lithium battery, except for hardwired alarms or alarms tied to a centrally monitored system.