Chesapeake requires smoke detectors in all residential dwellings under the Virginia Fire Prevention Code. Detectors must be in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level including basements.
Chesapeake enforces the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and Statewide Fire Prevention Code, which mandate smoke alarms in all dwellings. New construction after 2015 requires hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup. Existing homes built before the interconnection requirement must still have working battery-powered or hardwired alarms in each bedroom, immediately outside each sleeping area, and on every story. Rental units are subject to landlord duties under the Virginia Residential Landlord Tenant Act (VRLTA) to provide working detectors at the start of tenancy and upon written request. Chesapeake Fire Department runs a free smoke alarm installation program for qualifying residents. Tampering with or removing a detector is a code violation. Carbon monoxide detectors are required where fuel-burning appliances or attached garages exist.
Landlord violations subject to citation and civil penalties. Rental certificates may be withheld until compliance.
See how Chesapeake's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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