Washington Renter Rules: Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors

As a renter in Washington, your health and safety are protected by specific state laws requiring landlords to provide working carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke detectors. Understanding these rules helps you stay safe and know what to expect from your landlord, as well as your own responsibilities.

What Washington Law Requires: Detectors in All Rental Homes

By state law, all rental units in Washington must be equipped with operational smoke alarms. In addition, if the rental has a source of carbon monoxide—such as an attached garage, fireplace, appliance, or forced-air furnace—a carbon monoxide detector is also required. These requirements are covered under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and RCW 19.27.530 for detector installation.^[1][2]

• Smoke Detectors: Must be installed and in working order before you move in.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Required if there are fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.
• Placement: Detectors must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, typically in hallways near bedrooms.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance?

Landlords are required to install the detectors and provide them in working order. Once you move in, renters must maintain the detectors, which typically means testing them monthly and replacing batteries as needed.

• Landlord responsibilities: Install detectors, make sure they work, and replace defective units when notified.
• Renter responsibilities: Keep detectors functional by replacing batteries and reporting if a detector malfunctions.

What If Detectors Are Missing or Not Working?

If you notice a missing or malfunctioning detector, notify your landlord in writing right away. Landlords must repair or replace faulty detectors quickly—usually within 24–72 hours of notice. Make sure to keep a record of your request.

Washington Forms for Reporting Safety Issues

To formally notify your landlord about defective safety devices, use the "Notice to Landlord: Request for Repairs" form. While the state does not mandate a specific form for this situation, the Washington State Office of the Attorney General provides sample forms and templates to support renters (View samples here). Use a repair request form to:

• Document your request for detector repair or replacement.
• Begin a paper trail if you need to escalate the issue further.

Repair request form samples (Attorney General's Office)

If your landlord does not respond within the legally required timeframe, you may be able to take further steps, such as contacting the local building department or applying to the Washington State Courts for enforcement.

Legal Authority and Enforcement

The Washington State Office of the Attorney General provides guidance and is the primary resource for landlord-tenant issues, though formal disputes may ultimately be heard in your local county Superior or District Court.

• The main law covering tenant safety standards is the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector requirements: RCW 19.27.530.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are carbon monoxide and smoke detectors required in all Washington rentals?
   Yes. Smoke detectors are required in all rentals, and carbon monoxide detectors are required if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage.
2. Who is responsible for changing the batteries in my smoke or carbon monoxide detector?
   Renters are responsible for battery changes and regular testing. However, landlords must ensure the units work at move-in and replace non-working detectors when you notify them.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t fix or install a detector?
   Send a written request using a repair form and keep copies. If issues persist, you can pursue further action with your local county court or contact the Washington State Attorney General for assistance.
4. Do I have to let my landlord into my unit to install or repair detectors?
   Yes. Landlords have the right to enter your residence to address safety repairs, including installing or replacing detectors, as long as they give proper advance notice as required by law.
5. Is there any form I need to use to request detector maintenance?
   Washington does not require a specific form, but it’s best to use a "Notice to Landlord: Request for Repairs" or similar written documentation for your records.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords must install and maintain working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as required by law.
• Renters must replace batteries and report any detector problems right away.
• Always use written requests to document repair requests for your records and future reference.

Knowing your safety rights allows you to take action if your rental is not up to code.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington State Office of the Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resource Center — Information, forms, and sample letters
• Washington State Courts — Find your local county court to pursue legal claims
• Washington State Department of Health: Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms — Safety tips and regulations
• For immediate safety hazards, contact your local city or county code enforcement department

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1. RCW 59.18.060 – Landlord duties regarding health and safety
2. RCW 19.27.530 – Rules for carbon monoxide alarms

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