Renton requires smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on each floor under the WA Residential Code (RCW 19.27) and IFC via RMC 4-5-070. Rentals need working alarms at each tenancy per RCW 48.48.140.
Under the Washington State Residential Code (based on IRC, adopted statewide via RCW 19.27) and International Fire Code Section 907 as amended by Renton Municipal Code 4-5-070, smoke alarms are required in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity, and on every story of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. New construction and major renovations require interconnected hardwired alarms with battery backup. Existing homes that undergo permitted alterations over 1,000 dollars or add bedrooms must upgrade to interconnected alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms are required outside each sleeping area in all dwellings with fuel-fired appliances or attached garages per RCW 19.27.530. Rental properties must provide functional smoke alarms at the start of each tenancy under RCW 48.48.140, and landlords must instruct tenants in writing on testing and maintenance. Tenants are responsible for replacing batteries and reporting malfunctions during tenancy. Short-term rentals under RMC 4-4-055 require alarms and a bedroom safety map showing fire extinguisher and exit locations. Sealed 10-year lithium alarms are recommended for older homes not being retrofitted.
Civil infractions under RMC 1-10 for code violations. Landlord violations can trigger L and I enforcement and tenant remedies under RCW 59.18 Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
See how other cities in King County handle smoke detectors.
See how Renton's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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