Are smoke detectors required in all Idaho rental homes?

Yes, state law and most local codes require landlords to install smoke detectors in rental units.

Does my landlord have to provide carbon monoxide detectors?

Idaho does not have a statewide law requiring carbon monoxide detectors, but local rules or rental conditions may require them.

Can I install my own detectors if they're missing?

You can generally install your own battery-operated detectors for extra safety, but it's best to notify your landlord.

What should I do if my landlord won't repair a broken detector?

Send a written notice. If there's no response, contact local code enforcement or Idaho Courts for assistance.

Who enforces rental housing safety standards in Idaho?

Local building/code enforcement offices handle housing codes. Legal disputes are managed by the Idaho Courts.

Idaho Laws for Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors in Rentals

Health & Safety Standards Idaho published: June 21, 2025

As a renter in Idaho, your health and safety are important—and that includes protections from invisible risks like carbon monoxide and fire. Understanding your rights concerning smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors can help you ensure your rental home is safe and up to code. This guide explains Idaho’s requirements, your landlord’s responsibilities, and practical steps you can take if you think your home isn’t compliant.

Understanding Landlord Responsibilities in Idaho

In Idaho, landlords have specific duties when it comes to providing working smoke detectors in rental properties. It's essential to know what equipment your landlord must supply and what is expected from renters to maintain these devices.

Smoke Detector Laws in Idaho Rentals

Idaho law requires that all residential dwellings have smoke detectors installed. This applies to houses, apartments, and other rental units.
Landlords are typically responsible for installing smoke detectors in compliance with local building and fire codes.
Smoke detectors must be installed in specific locations, often inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every story of the building. Check with your local city or county fire marshal for specific location rules.
When you move in, your landlord must ensure that these detectors are functioning properly.

If you discover that a smoke detector is missing or not working, you can request your landlord repair or replace it as soon as possible.

Are Carbon Monoxide Detectors Required in Idaho Rentals?

Unlike smoke detectors, Idaho state law does not mandate carbon monoxide detectors in all rental housing.
However, some local city ordinances or county building codes may require carbon monoxide detectors in rentals with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.
If your rental has a gas furnace, water heater, fireplace, stove, or an attached garage, best practice is to confirm with your local city or county building office whether CO detectors are required.

Even if not legally required statewide, many landlords and tenants choose to install CO detectors for added safety. They can save lives by warning of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas.

Tip: Always test detectors regularly—monthly is a good routine—and replace batteries at least once a year or as needed.

What Should Renters Do If Detectors Are Missing or Broken?

If your smoke or CO detector is not present or malfunctioning, it’s important to act promptly:

Notify your landlord in writing if you notice missing or inoperable detectors. This helps provide a record of your request.
If your landlord does not address the issue, you may have options under Idaho’s rental laws to escalate the matter for timely repair.

There is currently no official Idaho state form exclusively for requesting smoke or carbon monoxide detector repairs. A written notice (by email or mail) stating the issue and date is sufficient. Be sure to keep a copy for your records.

How Idaho’s Landlord and Tenant Laws Protect You

The Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act outlines both parties’ rights and duties. Landlords must provide a safe living environment, which includes compliance with local safety codes—such as installing smoke detectors.

Landlords are expected to make repairs promptly if notified about safety violations.
Failure to comply can give tenants grounds to request repairs or, in some cases, take further legal action.

If the issue continues and you face difficulty getting repairs made, you may contact your local city code enforcement or health department. For questions about broader tenancy rights or filing a formal claim, you can reach out to the Idaho Courts as the official resource for landlord-tenant disputes.

Relevant Forms and Where to Get Help

Notice of Defect or Needed Repair (no standardized statewide form): Use a clear written notice to request repairs from your landlord.
Idaho Court Forms: If you need to take the matter further (such as withholding rent or seeking enforcement), the Idaho Court Assistance Office offers forms and guides for tenants.
- Landlord-Tenant Complaint Packet—used if you want to file a formal complaint about unresolved repairs or unsafe housing.
  Landlord-Tenant Court Forms

Always follow up any request or complaint with documentation—and never assume your landlord knows about an issue until you notify them in writing.

FAQ: Idaho Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Laws for Renters

Are smoke detectors required in all Idaho rental homes?
Yes, state law and most local codes require landlords to install smoke detectors in rental units.
Does my landlord have to provide carbon monoxide detectors?
Idaho does not have a blanket state law requiring carbon monoxide detectors in all units, but local codes or specific rental situations may require them.
Can I install my own detectors if they're missing?
You are generally allowed to install your own (battery-operated) detectors for extra protection, but notify your landlord so they are aware.
What should I do if my landlord won't repair a broken detector?
Send a written notice. If repairs are not made, you can contact local code enforcement or seek assistance from Idaho Courts.
Who enforces rental housing safety standards in Idaho?
Local building or code enforcement offices enforce housing codes, and landlord-tenant disputes are handled by the Idaho Courts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Idaho Renters

Landlords must provide working smoke detectors in rental units under Idaho law and local codes.
Carbon monoxide detectors may be required locally, especially for rentals with gas appliances or attached garages.
Always notify your landlord in writing if detectors are broken or missing—and keep records of all communications.

Having clear information and following the right steps helps keep your rental home safer and ensures that your rights as a tenant are respected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Idaho

Idaho Courts – Official resource for landlord-tenant legal disputes and information regarding your rights.
Idaho Court Assistance Office – Provides forms, guides, and help for renters who need to take legal action or respond to rental issues.
Local Building Officials – For questions on code enforcement or to report safety code violations.
City or County Code Enforcement Offices – Contact your local office for specific enforcement of smoke and CO detector rules where you live.