Skip to main content

Where to install my SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS (pdf file)

$0.00
Write a Review
Adding to cart… The item has been added

Download the code by add to Cart

In New York City, the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in residential units must comply with specific guidelines to ensure maximum safety. Here are the key requirements and recommendations for installing these alarms in each apartment:

Smoke Alarms

  1. Bedrooms: Install a smoke alarm inside each bedroom.
  2. Hallways: Place a smoke alarm in the hallway outside sleeping areas. If the hallway is longer than 40 feet, install a second alarm at the opposite end.
  3. Levels: Install a smoke alarm on each level of the apartment, including basements and attics.
  4. Kitchens: While it is important to have smoke alarms near the kitchen, avoid placing them too close to prevent false alarms from cooking fumes. Ideally, they should be installed at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances.
  5. Placement Height: Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings, as smoke rises. Ceiling-mounted alarms should be placed at least 4 inches from the nearest wall. Wall-mounted alarms should be installed no more than 12 inches from the ceiling.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

  1. Sleeping Areas: Install a carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of each sleeping area.
  2. Levels: Place a CO alarm on every level of the apartment, including basements and attics.
  3. Combination Units: If using combination smoke and CO alarms, ensure they meet both smoke and CO detection standards and place them according to the smoke alarm guidelines.

General Recommendations

  1. Interconnected Alarms: For enhanced safety, use interconnected smoke and CO alarms. When one alarm detects danger, all alarms in the apartment will sound, providing an earlier warning.
  2. Power Source: Preferably use alarms with a hard-wired power source with battery backup or long-life (10-year) sealed battery alarms to ensure continuous operation even during power outages.
  3. Testing and Maintenance: Test all alarms at least once a month and replace batteries as needed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and replacement intervals, typically every 10 years for smoke alarms and 5-7 years for CO alarms.

Compliance and Enforcement

  • The New York City Fire Code and the Housing Maintenance Code provide the legal framework for the installation and maintenance of smoke and CO alarms.
  • Landlords and property owners are responsible for ensuring alarms are installed and functioning in each apartment.
  • Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties and fines.

By following these guidelines, residents and property owners can ensure they meet legal requirements and provide a safer living environment for all occupants.

 

DISCLAIMER to comply with the New York City Consumer Protection Law which applies to all businesses operating in New York City: We are small family-owned and family-operated Brooklyn-based business. We are not a City of New York store nor are the website, products or services affiliated with the City of New York or any agency of the City of New York. We ourselves, our business, websites, products, services, or any hyperlinks from its website are not sponsored by, approved by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the City of New York or any agency of the City of New York, including but not limited to HPD, DOB, DOT, DSNY, FDNY and federal directly or by implication.

DISCLAIMER These codes may not be the most recent version. The State / federal or other regulation department may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.

The requirements for detector are determined by intended use and by applicable regulation. The BUYER is responsible for determining the appropriate detector needed.  WE makes no warranty or representation of suitability of a detector to any code or  for any specific application. IT IS THE CUSTOMER'S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT THE DETECTORS THE CUSTOMER ORDERS ARE IN COMPLIANCE WITH ALL STATE, FEDERAL, LOCAL, AND MUNICIPAL LAWS. Please review terms and conditions prior to purchase. 

For more information about what is required, see the laws that are referenced and the rules applicable to your city and state. This page is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice, professional advice or a statement of law. You may wish to consult with an attorney.