Here are the Facts

Firstly, you cannot sell a residential dwelling in Oregon without approved and properly placed smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. We, therefore, advise our sellers to properly install all detectors before listing their home for sale. It is important to understand contractual obligations for smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector requirements.

Next, know your rights and obligations and do your homework. There are provisions in the residential real estate sales agreement for the installation of smoke and carbon detectors. Sellers should follow the State Fire Marshall and applicable state building codes. Installation is required within a specified number of days after a sale agreement has been executed.

Why should my home have smoke alarms?

Statistics show that you are more likely to survive a home fire if you have a working smoke alarm. You may have less than three minutes to escape a home if a fire breaks out. Above all, smoke spreads fast, and smoke alarms alert you to the danger so you have the needed time to get out.

Here are the requirements.

In conclusion, smoke alarms are required. Therefore, real property may not be sold or transferred unless the required number of approved smoke alarms are installed. The State Building Code and Rules of the State Fire Marshal (ORS 479.260) dictate the requirements.

Smoke alarms should be installed in each bedroom or hallway leading to bedrooms as per the applicable requirements of the State Building Code at the time of construction. You should always install smoke alarms and smoke detectors according to the manufacturers’ guidelines. If bedrooms are on the second floor, you should install smoke alarms or smoke detectors in an accessible location as close as possible to the center of the ceiling directly over a stairway.

Installation Guidelines Summary

• You should install smoke alarms outside of sleeping areas within 15 feet of all bedroom doors.
• At least one smoke alarm should be installed on each level of the home (including the basement).
• You should install smoke alarms in every bedroom if required by the State Building Code at the time of construction.
• It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
• You should check Oregon.gov for more information.

Please give us a call if you would like additional information or if you have any questions.