Smoke Detector Requirements in Multi-Family Structures

Function

• Smoke detectors are designed to alert occupants of danger from smoke and/or fire. Most detectors now use two different types of sensors to register both smoke and heat. An early warning can be the difference between life and death.

Types

• Smoke detectors can be hard-wired directly into the electrical system of a home or they may be battery operated. The most reliable are those which are hard-wired, but these should also have a battery backup.

Placement

• In a home or apartment, there are basic places where smoke detectors should be located. Detectors should be in each bedroom, in each hallway and in the kitchen. Smoke detectors should be located at the tops of stairways, as well, as this is a natural course for airflow and, therefore, smoke.

Considerations

• Specific to multi-family homes is the consideration of common space. Multi-family homes may share an entryway or a laundry area. These areas should have smoke detectors.

Specific Features

• Multi-family homes must use hard-wired smoke detectors or detectors which send out radio signals to other detectors in the dwelling. Because there are multiple occupants, each must be able to be alerted to danger in attached areas of the dwelling.