As a property manager, what’s your main priority? The answer is the well-being of the tenants who utilize your building/property as it pertains to the property’s maintenance.
This also includes safety measures that are put in place to help prevent tragic events as much as humanly possible, which brings us to today’s topic:
smoke & carbon monoxide detectors.
As you probably already know, local township/town regulations require there to be a certain number of both types of detectors on each floor of a property with variations based on size of building, use type, etc. Installing these is the easy part. The hard part is maintaining them. Both types of detectors have shorter shelf-lives than other “appliances” and must be checked regularly; how often can depend on the type of product you choose.
Let’s review the maintenance details for each
Smoke Detectors
In general, a well-made smoke detector can work properly for about 10 years (give or take depending on a variety of factors). In general, you need a smoke detector in each bedroom, one on each floor, and in any enclosed area (i.e. detached structures). Keep in mind that you want to keep them away from windows, doors, or air ducts as the flow of air may impact its effectiveness.
They need batteries to function properly, which means these need to be replaced regularly. It’s advised to replace them once a year at minimum (versus waiting for a notification from the detector that they need to be replaced).
Routinely check and test the detectors. It is recommended to handle this monthly. Generally, there is a test button for a quick, simple testing but be sure to review the manuals for the devices that you purchase. You should also consider a physical test on a regular basis to make sure everything is in operating order.
***For example, after using the test button light a candle and hold it below the detector (about 15 cm) and if the alarm doesn’t go off within 20 seconds, blow it out and let the smoke rise. If it doesn’t go off, clean, and try the process again. If it still doesn’t work during the second test, then the unit needs to be replaced, not just the batteries. As this example implies, cleaning your units is imperative so add this step to when you’re checking your devices, so you ensure it is always clean and functional.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
CO detectors have a shorter use time: 5 years on average. Regulations on the number of carbon monoxide detectors varies but generally can follow the same plan as with smoke detectors. These are more sensitive than smoke detectors so in addition from keeping away from windows, doors, etc. you also want to keep them away from any heat sources.
Just as with smoke detectors, batteries will need to be replaced annually to ensure it’s always working. Since CO is an especially dangerous gas, it’s advised that you TEST THEM WEEKLY.
When you have tenants, this can be tricky but it’s important to figure out a system that works for all parties as you want to do everything possible to keep everyone safe.
In addition to testing, you should also clean these devices regularly – perhaps once a month when you’re there to test it alongside the smoke detectors. You want to get inside (with an air compressor or vacuum hose) and outside (with a damp cloth) to ensure no dust is getting in the way of the device working properly.
There are property management experts and other maintenance companies who offer services to assist you in keeping this and other equipment maintained and up to date. Depending on your schedule and lifestyle, these may be viable options for you. Be sure to vet out these organizations, read through both positive and negative reviews, and see how their service costs fits into your current budgeting for the property. Whether it’s you personally or another professional, the maintenance of smoke and CO detectors is a vital part of handling an investment property. Make sure you don’t miss it!
Contact our team by using the form below and we’ll get in touch with you to provide the resources and information you need to successfully manage your property