Smoke Detectors: Peoria vs Tempe

Where are smoke alarms required in a Peoria, AZ home?

Under the International Residential Code and 2018 International Fire Code adopted by Peoria City Code Section 9-31, smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, in the hallway or area 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. In new construction, the alarms must be hardwired to building power with a battery backup and interconnected so that one activation sounds them all. Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 requires an approved smoke detector in every new residential housing unit at construction and in existing units whenever a sleeping area is remodeled with a permit.

Who is responsible for smoke alarms in a Peoria rental?

Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 makes the tenant responsible for keeping the smoke detector operable unless the tenant gives the landlord written notice that the device is malfunctioning. After receiving written notice, the landlord must repair the alarm. The landlord is required to give the tenant written notification of these responsibilities. Initial installation in a new dwelling and after a permitted remodel of a sleeping area is the property owner's responsibility.

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

Under Tempe's Rental Housing Code, which adopts IRC Section R314 and IBC 907, smoke alarms are required inside every bedroom, in the hallway or area immediately outside each sleeping area, and on every story including basements and habitable attics. Wall-mounted alarms must sit 4–12 inches from the ceiling; ceiling units at least 4 inches from any wall. The owner must install, maintain, and verify operation before each new tenancy.

Who is responsible for smoke detectors in a Tempe rental — landlord or tenant?

Both. Under Tempe's Rental Housing Code, the owner is responsible for installation, replacing batteries annually if battery-operated, keeping records, and verifying all detectors are operational before re-occupancy. Under A.R.S. § 36-1637, the tenant must maintain and test the detector during occupancy and give written notice of any malfunction; the landlord must then repair it. Reach Tempe Code Compliance at 480-350-8372.