Smoke Detectors: Houston vs Pasadena

Where does Houston require smoke detectors in a home?

Smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every story including basements, under the Houston Fire Code (which adopts the 2021 IFC) and the Residential Code of Ohio analog adopted statewide under Tex. Local Gov't Code Ch. 214 Subch. G. New construction units must use hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup.

What smoke alarms do Houston landlords have to provide?

Texas Property Code Section 92.255 requires landlords to install at least one smoke alarm in each separate bedroom, at least one alarm in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms when multiple bedrooms share a corridor, and at least one alarm on each level of a multi-story unit. A tenant who requests inspection in writing may pursue civil penalties of one month's rent plus $100, damages, and fees under Sec. 92.260 if the landlord fails to comply.

Where must smoke alarms be installed in a Pasadena, TX home?

Under the 2015 IFC adopted in Chapter 13, Article VII, alarms are required inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area near bedrooms, and on every story including basements. Rentals must additionally meet Texas Property Code Sec. 92.254 (one alarm per bedroom).

Do I need hardwired smoke alarms in Pasadena, TX?

Texas Property Code Sec. 92.254 allows battery, AC, or other power sources unless local ordinance requires otherwise. New construction and substantial renovations under the 2015 IFC generally require hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup.

Are carbon monoxide alarms required in Pasadena, TX?

Texas has no statewide CO alarm mandate for existing dwellings. The 2015 IFC adopted by Pasadena requires CO alarms in new dwellings with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. Confirm scope with the Pasadena Fire Marshal.