TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 766 requires smoke detectors in all Denton rentals. Landlords must install and test within 7 days of written request.
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 766 requires smoke detectors in all residential rental properties statewide. Landlords must install at least one UL-listed smoke detector per bedroom plus common hallways on each level. Under TX H&S Code 766.004, a tenant may request in writing that detectors be inspected or replaced, and the landlord has seven days to comply. Failure to comply entitles the tenant to remedies under TX Property Code 92.2611 including repair-and-deduct. The City of Denton enforces these requirements through its adopted 2021 International Fire Code (Ord. 22-663) and the International Residential Code. New construction must meet NFPA 72 standards with interconnected, hardwired detectors with battery backup in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level. The Denton Fire Marshal inspects rental properties upon complaint and during annual multi-family inspections. Carbon monoxide detectors are not required by Texas state law but are recommended by Denton Fire Prevention.
Landlord failure to install: tenant remedy under TX Property Code 92.2611. New construction noncompliance: certificate of occupancy withheld. Fire code violation: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500.
See how other cities in Denton County handle smoke detectors.
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