Winston-Salem enforces the NC State Building Code and NC Residential Code, which require working smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level. Rental units must have working alarms at the start of each tenancy under NCGS 42-42.
New construction and major remodels must install hardwired, interconnected smoke alarms with battery backup on every level, outside each sleeping area, and inside each bedroom, per NC Residential Code Section R314. For existing dwellings, battery-only alarms are acceptable when replacement is not triggered by a permit. Landlords are required by NCGS 42-42(a)(5) to provide operable smoke alarms at the start of each tenancy and to replace batteries at the start of a tenancy; thereafter the tenant is responsible unless the alarm fails. Carbon monoxide alarms are required in dwellings with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages under NCGS 42-42(a)(8) and NC Residential Code R315. Winston-Salem Fire Department distributes free smoke alarms to qualifying residents through its community risk-reduction program.
Landlord failure to provide alarms: rental registration issues and civil liability. Building code violations: stop-work orders and permit denial until corrected.
See how Winston-Salem's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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