How can landlord be sure tenants have properly changed smoke detector batteries in the rental property? Each week veteran landlord and property manager Hank Rossi answers questions like this from other landlords and property managers around the country about their rentals. Send him your question in the form below.
Dear Landlord Hank:
Am I required to have my tenants sign something that says they changed the smoke detector batteries for all of the smoke detectors in the house every year?
I live in Oregon; am wondering if there are any laws specific to states regarding this? Thank you!
-Megan
Dear Landlady Megan:
I can’t give legal advice. I do not know about fire codes in your state, but in both Georgia and Florida I have tenants sign a lease that includes a provision saying that they are responsible for changing the smoke detector batteries in all smoke detectors as needed.
In Georgia, I have to have a special lease addendum regarding this.
It’s just a good idea for the tenants’ safety and the safety of your property to have working smoke detectors at all times.
Sincerely,
Hank Rossi
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