Smoke Detector & CO Detectors

Carbon Monoxide Detectors now Required

The Ontario Fire Code mandates the installation of smoke alarms in all residences.  The Fire Code was amended under Section 2.13 that smoke alarms must be installed and maintained outside of all sleeping areas, as well as on every level of a residence. The Fire Code also states that "No person shall intentionally disable a smoke alarm so as to make it inoperable."  Anyone who intentionally disables a smoke alarm is guilty of a Provincial Offence and is subject to a fine.  Failure to comply with the Fire Code Smoke Alarm Requirements could result in a fine of up to $50,000 for individuals or $100,000 for Corporations.

It is the responsibility of homeowners to install and maintain smoke alarms on every level of their home and outside sleeping areas.

It is the responsibility of landlords to ensure their rental properties comply with this law. 

Tenants:

If you are a tenant of a rental property and do not have the required number of smoke alarms, contact your landlord immediately. Also, it is against the law for tenants to remove the batteries or tamper with the smoke alarms in any way.

Requirements:

Note: New homes constructed today are required by the Ontario Building Code to have electrically operated smoke alarms installed on all levels of the home. These smoke alarms must also be interconnected to each other so if one is activated, all smoke alarms in the same home will ring.

• Ceiling mounted smoke alarms should be installed away from ceiling fans and air ducts, and at least 10 centimetres away from the wall. Wall mounted alarms should be installed so the top of the alarm is 10 to 30 centimetres below the ceiling.