Do all Montana rentals need fire escapes?

Most multi-unit buildings or those with three or more stories require at least two means of egress, such as hallways, stairs, or exterior fire escapes. Single-family homes usually do not.

Are landlords required to provide smoke detectors in Montana?

Yes, all rental units must have working smoke detectors in or near bedrooms and on each floor as required by law.

What should I do if my building's fire exits are blocked?

Notify your landlord in writing right away. If the problem isn't addressed quickly, you can file a complaint with state code enforcement or request a fire inspection.

Does my apartment have to have sprinklers in Montana?

Only newer multi-unit buildings, or those renovated recently, require sprinkler systems. Older apartments might not unless a remodel or local code demands it.

Who do I contact if my landlord ignores safety requests?

If written requests and direct communication fail, contact Montana’s Building Codes Program or your local justice court.

Montana Fire Escape and Sprinkler Rules for Renters

Health & Safety Standards Montana published: June 21, 2025

Your safety as a renter in Montana is protected by laws that set out clear requirements for fire escapes, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Whether you live in an apartment or a single-family rental, understanding these rules can ensure that your home meets health and safety standards. This guide explains Montana's fire escape and sprinkler requirements, relevant forms if your landlord is not compliant, and how to get further help.

Understanding Fire Escape Requirements in Montana Rentals

Montana's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets basic safety standards for all rental properties. These include requirements that properties must be maintained to protect against hazards, such as blocked exits or malfunctioning smoke detectors.^[1] For buildings with multiple units or that are more than two stories, additional standards usually apply to ensure tenants have a safe exit in case of fire.

Exit Access: Buildings with three or more units must have at least two unobstructed exits—like stairways, corridors, or exterior fire escapes—for each floor (Montana Building Codes).
Fire Escapes: Where a second means of egress is required, it must be accessible, not locked, and kept clear at all times.
Smoke Detectors: All rental units are required to have operational smoke alarms, typically in hallways and sleeping areas.
Landlord Duties: Landlords must repair or address any condition that directly affects health and safety, including blocked exits or missing alarms.

Sprinkler Systems and Fire Protection in Montana Rentals

Not every apartment or rental home in Montana will have a sprinkler system, but buildings constructed or significantly renovated after the current code adoption (usually post-2010) must follow updated fire protection standards. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry's Building Codes Program enforces these requirements statewide.^[2]

Sprinklers: Most new multi-unit buildings or those over a certain size are required to have an approved fire sprinkler system installed and maintained to code.
Retrofits: Older buildings may not be retrofitted unless substantial remodeling occurs or local ordinance requires it.
Tenant Responsibility: Renters should avoid tampering with or blocking sprinkler heads or smoke detectors. Report any malfunctioning fire equipment immediately.

If you’re unsure whether your building meets current requirements, contact your local building or fire department for confirmation.

What to Do If Your Rental Lacks Proper Fire Protection

If your landlord is not maintaining fire exits, smoke alarms, or sprinkler systems, Montana law gives you options for requesting repairs or filing a complaint. Always start by notifying your landlord in writing of the issue and request prompt action.

Written Notice: Send a written request to your landlord describing the problem and citing your right to a safe and habitable home under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
Waiting Period: Landlords usually have up to 14 days to make non-emergency repairs, but issues involving immediate danger (like blocked fire exits) should be fixed much sooner.

If your landlord does not respond, keep copies of your requests. You may be able to file an official complaint or request inspection by local authorities.

Relevant Official Forms for Fire and Safety Complaints

Montana Landlord/Tenant Complaint Form (No official state-wide number):
- When to use: If your landlord fails to address a fire or safety hazard, you can use this form to file a complaint with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry or your local city/county code enforcement.
- Example: You notice the emergency exit door in your building is permanently locked. After putting your concern in writing to your landlord and waiting, you fill out the Montana Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form and submit it to the relevant authority.
Local Fire Department Inspection Request (varies by city/county):
- When to use: To request an official inspection when a serious fire code or safety issue exists and is not being addressed.
- Find your local department at the Montana Fire Services Directory.

Who Handles Disputes? Montana's Main Housing Tribunal

If issues escalate, disputes between landlords and tenants involving safety or habitability are typically heard in Montana Justice Courts (sometimes called Small Claims or City Courts), depending on your jurisdiction. These courts hear cases under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[3]

FAQ: Fire Escape and Sprinkler Rules for Montana Renters

Do all Montana rentals need fire escapes?
Most multi-unit buildings or those with three or more stories require at least two means of egress, such as hallways, stairs, or exterior fire escapes. Single-family homes usually do not.
Are landlords required to provide smoke detectors in Montana?
Yes, all rental units must have working smoke detectors in or near bedrooms and on each floor as required by law.
What should I do if my building's fire exits are blocked?
Notify your landlord in writing right away. If not addressed quickly, you can file a complaint with state code enforcement or request a fire inspection.
Does my apartment have to have sprinklers in Montana?
Only newer multi-unit buildings, or those renovated recently, require sprinkler systems. Older apartments might not unless a remodel or local code demands it.
Who do I contact if my landlord ignores safety requests?
If written requests and direct communication fail, contact Montana’s Building Codes Program or your local justice court.

Key Takeaways for Montana Renters

If you live in a multi-unit building, at least two available fire exits are required by law.
Landlords must provide working smoke detectors and, in many newer buildings, sprinkler systems for fire protection.
You have a right to a safe rental—report any unresolved hazards to local authorities or file a formal complaint if needed.

Staying informed and proactive helps ensure your Montana rental meets all fire safety and sprinkler standards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Montana Department of Labor & Industry: Landlord-Tenant Complaint Program – For filing health, safety, and building code complaints.
Montana Justice Courts – Handles landlord-tenant disputes.
Montana Fire Services Directory – To contact your local fire department for inspections.
Montana Legal Services Association – For free or low-cost legal help with housing issues.
Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – The full statute protecting your rights as a renter.

Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: View Section 70-24-303: Landlord Obligations to Maintain Fit Premises
Building fire safety requirements: Montana Building Codes Program
Tribunal for housing disputes: Montana Justice Courts