Residential Smoke Detector Laws in Texas

Rental

• Rental properties in Texas have very specific laws regarding smoke detectors. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that every rental property has a smoke detector on the premises. Battery operated ones are allowed, unless the property has been remodeled since 1987. After 1987, the law was changed so that any properties that were newly being built or remodeled must include wiring that allows smoke detectors to be installed. At least one smoke detector needs to be installed within the area of each bedroom. There must also be one located above the stairway in the case of a two-story building. If a bedroom is directly above a kitchen or cooking area, then one needs to be placed directly above the stairway in the middle of the ceiling.

Residences

• In the state of Texas, smoke detectors regulations for homes is overseen by the jurisdiction in which the house is located. Texas has a broad guideline that one and two-family homes are required to have smoke detectors installed. If an old property that does not have a smoke detector is undergoing renovations, it must be rewired to add a smoke detector. If a buyer of a home has a family member that is hearing impaired, the seller is required to provide smoke detectors for the hearing impaired.

Assisted Living Homes

• Smoke detectors in assisted living homes must be located in each person's bedroom, all hallways, dining rooms, common areas, and offices. There must also be a device that can be manually activated. The smoke detectors must be checked one year from the date of the installation, and then again every two years after. The records of the installation must be kept on file and be available for inspection by the Department of Health and Safety.