Homestead follows the Florida Building Code and Florida Fire Prevention Code for smoke detector requirements. Smoke alarms are required in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every floor. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in homes with gas appliances or attached garages. The HVHZ code imposes additional fire safety requirements.
Homestead enforces smoke detector requirements under the Florida Building Code (FBC) and Florida Fire Prevention Code (FFPC). All residential units must have functioning smoke alarms installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area in the hallway, and on every level of the home including the basement. Smoke alarms must be hard-wired with battery backup in new construction and major renovations; battery-only alarms are acceptable in existing homes. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years per manufacturer guidelines. Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are required in homes with fuel-burning appliances (gas stoves, water heaters, furnaces) or attached garages under Florida Statute Section 553.885. Rental properties must have working smoke and CO alarms at the start of each tenancy. The Homestead Fire Department at (305) 224-4600 conducts fire safety inspections for rental properties and commercial buildings. Given Homestead's HVHZ construction requirements, electrical systems for smoke alarms must meet stringent standards.
Failure to maintain working smoke alarms in rental properties carries fines and may affect habitability certification. New construction without proper smoke alarm installation fails inspection. Contact Homestead Fire at (305) 224-4600.
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