Here’s a new law passed by the California Legislature that may impact you as a homeowner, home seller or home buyer.

Smoke Detectors Specifications Changed
Starting July 1, 2014, the State Fire Marshall will not approve a battery-operated smoke alarm unless it contains a non-replaceable, non-removable battery capable of powering the smoke alarm for at least 10 years.

This rule was originally slated to take effect on January 1, 2014. Until July 1, 2015, an exception to this rule applies to smoke alarms ordered by, or in the inventory of, an owner, managing agent, contractor, wholesaler, or retailer on or before July 1, 2014.

Furthermore, starting January 1, 2015, the State Fire Marshal will not approve a smoke alarm unless it does all of the following: (1) displays the date of manufacture on the device; (2) provides a place on the device to insert the date of installation; and (3) incorporate a hush feature.

A previous requirement for the smoke alarm to incorporate an end-of-life feature that provides notice that the device needs to be replaced has been eliminated. The requirements taking effect on January 1, 2015 was originally slated to take effect on January 1, 2014.

The State Fire Marshal has the authority to create exceptions to these requirements.

Article is courtesy of the CAR Legal Department. Senate Bill 745 (codified as Cal. Health & Safety Code § 13114) (effective January 1, 2014).