Oregon Smoke Alarm Laws: Renters’ Rights & Duties

Smoke alarms are crucial for safety in every rental home. In Oregon, both landlords and tenants must follow specific laws about smoke alarms. This article explains what renters in Oregon need to know, what your landlord must do, and what you’re responsible for—so your home stays safe and you stay protected under state law.

Understanding Smoke Alarm Laws in Oregon Rentals

Oregon law requires landlords to provide and maintain smoke alarms in all rental units. As a tenant, you also have legal duties. These rules are designed to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of fire injuries.

Landlord Responsibilities

• Install approved smoke alarms in every sleeping area and at points required by the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
• Ensure all alarms (and carbon monoxide alarms, where required) are present and functioning when you move in.
• Provide working batteries for battery-operated smoke alarms at move-in.
• Disclose in writing the type, location, and last service date of every smoke and carbon monoxide alarm—often on the move-in checklist or written notice.

Landlords are also responsible for replacing alarms that reach the end of their lifespan (typically 10 years) and for any repairs beyond normal wear and tear¹.

Tenant Responsibilities

• Test each smoke alarm at least every six months.
• Replace smoke alarm batteries if your alarm is battery-powered, unless the batteries are non-removable or "sealed" types.
• Report any malfunctioning or missing alarms to your landlord in writing as soon as possible.
• Never disable, tamper with, or remove any smoke or carbon monoxide alarm.
• Allow your landlord to enter for repairs or testing, following proper notice rules from Oregon law.

If you damage or remove an alarm, you could be liable for repair or replacement costs.

When Landlords or Tenants Must Act

If a smoke alarm is not working or is missing, take action quickly. Oregon law makes it clear both sides have obligations:

• Tenants: Report missing or nonworking alarms to your landlord right away, in writing.
• Landlords: Must repair, replace, or install as soon as possible after notice.

What If Your Landlord Doesn’t Respond?

If your landlord does not repair or replace a missing or faulty smoke alarm after you report it:

• You may file a complaint with your local building or code enforcement office. In some cases, you may also use Oregon’s official renter complaint process.
• As a last resort, you may contact the Oregon State Landlord-Tenant hotline or seek help from the Oregon Judicial Department.

Official Forms Renters Should Know

• Rental Repair Request (Written Notice)
  Purpose: Used by tenants to formally request repairs, such as replacing a non-functioning smoke alarm.
  How to Use: Draft a written statement describing the smoke alarm problem and deliver it to your landlord. Clearly state the date and keep a copy. There is no official statewide form, but local agencies may provide templates (see example repair request template from OHCS).
• Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Alarm Disclosure Form
  Purpose: Oregon landlords must provide this statement at move-in, describing devices present and last serviced. This is a landlord obligation, but you can ask for it if not provided. See the Oregon State Fire Marshal resource for guidance.

Which Laws Protect Oregon Renters?

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90), especially sections 90.320 and 90.325.
• Oregon State Fire Codes (see State Fire Marshal guidance)

Disputes between tenants and landlords about smoke alarms may go to court through the Oregon Courts Landlord-Tenant Dispute Resolution system, overseen by the Oregon Judicial Department.

FAQ: Oregon Smoke Alarms and Renter Duties

1. Do I have to install smoke alarms myself as a renter in Oregon?
   No, landlords must install all required smoke alarms before move-in. Renters are responsible for testing and reporting problems.
2. What if my alarm starts beeping or needs a new battery?
   Replace the battery if possible, unless you have a sealed unit. If problems persist, notify your landlord promptly in writing.
3. Can my landlord enter my unit to check smoke alarms?
   Yes, but only after giving proper notice (usually at least 24 hours in writing, except in emergencies).
4. Are carbon monoxide alarms required too?
   Yes, in units with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, Oregon law also requires carbon monoxide alarms.
5. What if my landlord ignores my written repair request?
   If repairs aren’t made, you can file a complaint with your local code office or pursue action through the Oregon courts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Both landlords and tenants have clear, legal smoke alarm duties in Oregon.
• Always test your alarms, replace batteries (if allowed), and report issues fast.
• If your landlord doesn’t make repairs, there are official complaint and resolution steps you can take.

Keep your home safe and stay informed to protect your rights under Oregon law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Landlord-Tenant Information: Renters’ rights, complaint contacts, and forms.
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Read the full text of Oregon’s main tenancy law.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal–Smoke Alarm Program: Device rules and safety resources.
• Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord-Tenant Dispute Resolution: Mediation, complaints, and rental court info.

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Oregon State Fire Marshal – Smoke Alarm Program
3. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – Landlord-Tenant Resources

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