Are landlords responsible for smoke detectors to be functional in a rental property?
Question: A small fire had broke out in a home that I rent. I was cooking something in the toaster oven and went upstairs. I came down just in time before the fire spread outside of the toaster oven, however a lot of smoke stains are on the ceiling. I realized afterwards that the batters on the smoke detectors were broken. I am being held liable now for the damages but I think the landlord was responsible for the smoke detectors to be functional? I only moved in a couple months ago. Response: The implied warranty of habitability, a law which exists in most states, requires landlords to maintain their rental units in a condition fit for human beings to live in. A rental unit must substantially comply with building and housing code standards that materially affect tenants’ health and safety. Moving forward, please consult a Landlord Tenant attorney to determine the proper course of action.
