Smoke Detectors: Mount Vernon vs Yonkers

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

Section R314 of the 2020 New York State Residential Code (adopted via 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and enforced locally under Mount Vernon Chapter 131) requires a smoke alarm inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on each additional story of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. New construction alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so one triggers all.

Can I still use 9-volt battery smoke alarms in Mount Vernon?

Existing replaceable-battery alarms installed in compliance with prior code may remain in service, but any battery-only replacement smoke alarm sold or installed in New York since April 1, 2019 must use a sealed, non-removable 10-year battery under NY General Business Law section 399-ccc. All smoke alarms must be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture or sooner if they fail an operability test.

Where do I need smoke alarms in my Yonkers home?

You need a smoke alarm inside each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story of the dwelling including the basement, per 19 NYCRR Part 1225.

Do I need hardwired or battery alarms?

New construction and substantial renovations require hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup. Existing one- and two-family homes may use battery alarms, but any new battery alarm sold in NY since April 2019 must have a sealed, non-removable 10-year battery.

Are landlords or tenants responsible for smoke alarms?

Landlords must install working alarms before occupancy. Tenants are responsible for ongoing testing and battery replacement (where removable) and must report any failure to the landlord promptly.