Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing Compliance Checklist

Working smoke and CO detectors are the first line of defense against fire and carbon monoxide fatalities. This testing checklist ensures all detectors meet NFPA 72 placement requirements and state landlord-tenant law compliance.

  • Industry: Real Estate & Property Management
  • Frequency: Monthly (Visual) / Annual (Full Test)
  • Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
  • Role: Property Manager / Maintenance Technician
  • Total Items: 35
  • Compliance: NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 720 Standard for the Installation of Carbon Monoxide Warning Equipment, State Landlord-Tenant Smoke Detector Laws, ICC International Residential Code Section R314/R315, Australia AS 3786 Smoke Alarms Standard

Smoke Detector Inventory and Placement

Verify correct number and placement of smoke detectors.

  • Smoke detector inside every sleeping room?
  • Smoke detector outside sleeping areas within 21 feet of each sleeping room door?
  • Smoke detector on each level including basement?
  • Detectors not installed in dead air spaces (within 4 inches of wall/ceiling intersection)?
  • Detectors not within 20 feet of cooking appliances to reduce nuisance alarms?
  • Total detector count documented and adequate for dwelling size?

Smoke Detector Testing

Test all smoke detectors for proper function.

  • All smoke detectors tested using test button - loud alarm heard?
  • When one detector alarmed, all others alarmed simultaneously (interconnected)?
  • All batteries replaced (annually minimum)?
  • All detectors less than 10 years old (manufacture date on back)?
  • No detectors chirping (low battery or end-of-life signal) after fresh battery?
  • Functional smoke test performed using approved aerosol test spray (annual)?

CO Detector Inventory and Testing

Verify CO detector placement and function.

  • Property has gas appliances, attached garage, or other CO sources requiring CO detectors?
  • CO detector installed on each level and near sleeping areas?
  • CO detectors tested using test button?
  • CO detectors less than 7 years old (most CO detectors have 5-7 year sensor life)?
  • CO detectors not installed in garage or within 5 feet of fuel-burning appliances (false alarm risk)?
  • Combination smoke/CO units meet both NFPA 72 and NFPA 720 requirements?

Documentation and Tenant Communication

Maintain required detector testing records.

  • Monthly test log maintained with dates and results?
  • All replacements documented with dates and model numbers?
  • Tenant instructed on not disabling detectors or removing batteries?
  • Tenant provided with fire evacuation and CO emergency procedures?
  • State landlord-tenant smoke detector law requirements fully met?
  • Australia properties: AS 3786 photoelectric detectors in required locations?

Emergency Evacuation Planning

Verify emergency evacuation plans are in place.

  • Written fire evacuation plan provided to all tenants?
  • Designated assembly point identified and communicated?
  • Tenants with mobility impairments have assisted evacuation plan?
  • Property address clearly posted for emergency responders?
  • Fire escapes unobstructed and ladders deployable (if applicable)?

Maintenance Records

Complete detector maintenance records.

  • Annual detector testing records on file going back 3 years?
  • Move-in inspection records confirming detector status documented?
  • Tenant signature on acknowledgment of working detectors?
  • Receipts or records for all detector replacements and purchases on file?
  • Annual comprehensive test scheduled and on calendar?
  • Annual compliance certification signed by property manager if required by state?

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Why Use This Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing Compliance Checklist?

This smoke and carbon monoxide detector testing compliance checklist helps real estate & property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / maintenance technician professionals, this checklist covers 35 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly (visual) / annual (full test).

Ensures compliance with NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 720 Standard for the Installation of Carbon Monoxide Warning Equipment, State Landlord-Tenant Smoke Detector Laws, ICC International Residential Code Section R314/R315, Australia AS 3786 Smoke Alarms Standard. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing Compliance Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 35 inspection items across 6 sections: Smoke Detector Inventory and Placement, Smoke Detector Testing, CO Detector Inventory and Testing, Documentation and Tenant Communication, Emergency Evacuation Planning, Maintenance Records. It is designed for real estate & property management operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly (visual) / annual (full test). Each completion takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

Who should use this Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing Compliance Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Property Manager / Maintenance Technician professionals in the real estate & property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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