D.C. Code tit. 6, ch. 7 § 6-751.02
Duty of owner to install detectors.
Operative Text
The owner of each new and existing occupied dwelling unit shall be responsible for installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with the Construction Codes.
Under D.C. Code § 6-751.02, property owners—not tenants—bear the legal responsibility for installing both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in every occupied dwelling unit, whether the building is newly constructed or already existing. The detectors must meet the standards set out in the District's Construction Codes. This rule applies across the board to all occupied residential units in the District of Columbia.
Plain English — not legal advice.
D.C. Code § 6-751.02 places the installation obligation squarely on property owners, meaning compliant operators ensure that every occupied dwelling unit—regardless of the building's age—is equipped with functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors before tenants move in and throughout the tenancy. Operators generally verify that the devices meet current District of Columbia Construction Code specifications, since those standards define what counts as a compliant installation. Keeping records of installation dates, device models, and any replacements is a practice commonly associated with demonstrating compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
D.C. Code § 6-751.02 establishes that your landlord, not you, is responsible for installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your dwelling unit. If detectors are missing or were never installed, that may constitute a housing code violation that can be reported to the District's housing inspection authorities. Tenant-rights organizations in the District can explain the range of options available, including how to document the issue and what complaint processes exist.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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