How many carbon monoxide detectors need to be installed in each dwelling unit?
The law requires that a CO detector be installed within 15 feet of each sleeping room in a dwelling unit (or in a location as specified in any building code adopted by the state or any local government entity). In addition, as long as there is a centralized alarm system or other mechanism for a responsible person to hear the alarm at all times (and able to alert tenants), a carbon monoxide alarm can be installed within twenty-five feet of any fuel-fired heater, or appliance, boiler, fireplace, or garage in addition to placement of detectors within the required 15 feet of each sleeping room. It is recommended that CO detectors are installed in the units even if the boiler is not attached to a unit. The law states that if there is anything operated by gas (fossil fuel burning) that detectors are needed. The law does not specify the distance from detector to boiler and therefore installing detectors in each unit as specified above will insure compliance.
