Smoke Detector Installation Requirements

Building Codes

• The installation of smoke detectors is mandated by building codes at the state and local level, which may vary. According to Sensor System, there are three primary organizations that develop fire and building codes that may be adopted by states and municipalities, including the Building Officials and Code Administrators, the International Conference of Building Officials and the Southern Building Code Congress International. The NFPA publishes codes and standards that apply to the installation and maintenance of smoke detectors. Smoke detector installation requirements vary by type of building, expected occupancy, whether the building is new or existing construction and many other factors. The primary NFPA code that governs smoke detector installation is NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm Code.

Location

• Most state and local building codes require new construction homes to have interconnected smoke detectors installed in every sleeping room in the house, according to the NFPA. The NFPA recommends a minimum of one smoke detector be installed on each floor of existing single family dwellings, including the basement. A smoke detector should be located in or near every separate sleeping area. The NFPA also recommends all smoke detectors in the home be interconnected in order to provide early warning in the event a fire breaks out in a distant part of the home. Smoke detectors should be mounted on the ceiling, no closer than four inches to the nearest wall, or high up on a wall, no closer than 12 inches to the ceiling, according to the NFPA.

Power Source

• Smoke detectors may operate on direct current from batteries, alternating current from the building's electrical system or a combination of both. Installers who hard wire smoke detectors into the building's electrical system should pay special attention to the manufacturer’s wiring instructions, according to Sensor Systems. Installation must be in compliance with NFPA 70, Article 760, as well as the National Electrical Code (NEC) and all state and local building code requirements. The NFPA recommends all hard wired smoke detectors have a battery backup system. Smoke detectors that are battery operated should be tested monthly and have the battery replaced annually.