Tuesday, January 30, 2007

 

Smoke and Carbon Detectors

I hope you already know that you have to provide a smoke detector in every apartment and the common areas. You may need more then one depending on how large the apartments are. You can check with your local hardware store to see how many smoke detectors per square foot are required. Most lease state that it is the responsibility of the tenant to change the batteries. It is worth reviewing your lease agreement to see who is responsible for the upkeep. I still recommend reminding your tenants once or twice a year to check the batteries.
There is a new law that landlords must also provide carbon monoxide detectors as well. You can buy combo units or you can buy the carbon detectors that plug in and don't need batteries. Make it clear in the lease agreement that if any detectors are missing the tenants will be charged to replace them.
Just remember that it is your building and in the end you are responsible for the safety of your tenants. Also if there is a fire you are the one that will have to deal with the aftermath, regardless of who's fault it is.

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