Are landlords required to provide smoke detectors and other safety devices?

In North Carolina, landlords are required to provide smoke detectors and other safety devices, such as carbon monoxide detectors, in all their rental units. This is mandated by the North Carolina State Fire Prevention Code and enforced by local fire departments. Landlords must install operational smoke detectors in every bedroom and in common areas of the rental unit, such as hallways or living rooms. Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed if there are fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, gas stoves, or fireplaces in the rental unit. Landlords must also provide an emergency escape ladder for two-story buildings with two or more bedrooms. The ladder should be placed in an easily accessible location and be large enough to accommodate the tenants. Additionally, landlords must provide window guards if the building is intended for occupancy by children or if the tenant has personally requested them. It is important to note that if the tenant does not comply with the fire safety provisions of the lease agreement, the landlord is not responsible for the installation or maintenance of the safety devices. Similarly, if the tenant fails to repair or replace damaged or defective safety devices, it is the tenant’s responsibility. Therefore, it is important that when signing a lease agreement, tenants should make sure that all safety devices are properly installed and maintained.

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Are landlords required to provide smoke detectors and other safety devices?

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