Last Updated: April 2024
Smoke detectors are generally a requirement for all types of rental properties. While different states and municipalities have different requirements, they all use the same type of smoke detectors – hard wired, battery operated, and Combination smoke and carbon monoxide. Where required, landlords hold the responsibility to regularly inspect and ensure that all smoke detectors are working properly.
Best Rental Property Smoke and Carbon Detectors
| Best Overall | Best Economy | Best Smart | Best Carbon | Best Combo |
 First Alert – BRK 3120B Hardwired |  Kidde – i9030 Battery Powered |  Google Nest – Protect Smoke & Carbon |  Kidde – KN-COB-DP2 Carbon Plug In |  First Alert – SCO501CN – Smoke Carbon Combo |
Below we explore the top 5 smoke alarms for rental properties based on 5 different factors that landlords and property managers should consider when determining which type of smoke alarm is best for their rental property investment.
Best Overall
Buying Options
First Alert – BRK 3120B Hardwired Photoelectric and Ionization Smoke Alarm with Battery Backup
Type
Hardwire Powered, Battery Backup, Smoke Detector
Pros
- Dual sensors detect both smoldering and fast-flaming fires, increasing detection accuracy.
- Hardwire alarm with battery backup ensures protection even during power outages.
Cons
- Front cover design inconsistency may cause aesthetic mismatch.
- Multiple latching features might confuse users regarding low battery or originating alarm indication.
Why We Like This Overall Smoke Detector
First Alert is a trusted brand for consumer fire detection products and this smoke alarm is our top pick for an overall good hardwired smoke alarm (required in most residential applications) with a battery backup.
Best Economy
Buying Options
Kidde – i9030 Battery Powered Ionization Smoke Detector
Type
Battery Powered, Smoke Detector
Pros
- Affordable price for a reliable fire detection solution.
- No wiring required; easy installation with a 9-volt alkaline battery.
Cons
- Basic ionization may not detect smoldering fires as quickly as photoelectric sensors.
- False alarms possible from everyday activities like cooking or showering.
Why We Like This Budget Smoke Detector
Sometimes you just need to get a smoke alarm installed ASAP. For under $10, this battery powered smoke alarm is a great buy from a well established brand.
Best Smart
Buying Options
Google Nest – Protect Hardwired Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector, WiFi with Phone Alerts
Type
Hardwired (Battery Option Also Available), Smoke and Carbon, Wifi Enabled
Pros
- Sends phone alerts for potential dangers and low batteries, ensuring constant monitoring.
- Split-Spectrum Sensor ensures fast detection of both slow and rapid burning fires.
Cons
- Requires a working Wi-Fi connection, which might be a limitation for some.
- Multiple wireless features may complicate setup for non-tech-savvy users.
Why We Like This Smart Smoke Detector
If your property uses other Google (Nest) smart devices then this wifi connected smoke and carbon detector is a perfect fit. It will notify your smartphone for any alerts, which could be perfect for a vacation rental property.
Best Carbon Only
Buying Options
Kidde – KN-COB-DP2 Carbon Monoxide Detector, AC-Plug-In with Battery Backup
Type
Plug-In Powered, Battery Backup, Carbon Monoxide Detector
Pros
- Easy installation with plug-in feature and AA battery backup ensures continuous protection.
- Digital display updates CO levels every 15 seconds; offers quick insight into gas presence.
Cons
- 85-decibel alarm might be too loud for sensitive individuals or small spaces.
- “End of life chirp” can be bothersome when device nears replacement time.
Why We Like This Carbon Monoxide Detector
Many jurisdictions have carbon monoxide detector requirements for residential properties. This Kidde plug in carbon monoxide detector is a great option for compliance since you can plug into any outlet.
Best Combo
Buying Options
First Alert – SCO501CN-3ST Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Location, Battery Operated
Type
Battery Powered, Smoke Detector, Carbon Monoxide Detector
Pros
- Combination device detects both smoke and CO; voice location offers clear problem indication.
- Interconnects with up to 18 alarms, creating a comprehensive wireless safety network.
Cons
- Front cover design inconsistency might not appeal to design-conscious consumers.
- Dependence on user manual for detailed instructions may be cumbersome for some.
Why We Like This Combo Smoke and Carbon Detector
When you need to have both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector, a combination unit is usually the best choice. This First Alert smoke and carbon alarm is the perfect mix of quality, affordability, and functionality.
Disclosure: RentalRealEstate.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate programs, designed to provide a means for us to generate revenue by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you.
The #1 Rental Property Newsletter
Once a month, we send out an exclusive Rental Property Market Update with top stories, current mortgage rates, building products, and more. No spam and unsubscribe anytime.
Top Places to Buy Smoke Alarms
Smoke Detector Installation
How to Hire a Rental Property Electrician
Smoke alarms are required products for both residential and commercial structures. Hiring a rental property electrician to ensure property installation and ensures safety and compliance with local regulations. Electricians are the real estate pros who can install these critical devices.
Where to Find Rental Property Pros
Finding qualified, honest, and reliable service pros can easily be done with online service directories. These platforms directly connect customers and service providers who can do installations and repairs for rental properties ranging from doorbell installations to kitchen range repairs.
Rental Property Smoke Detector FAQ
Types of Smoke Detectors
When considering fire safety in rental properties, understanding the different types of smoke detectors is paramount. Each type has its own method of detecting fires, and the choice can significantly influence the safety of your property’s occupants. Here are the primary types of smoke detectors:
Ionization Smoke Detectors
These detectors are sensitive to flaming fires and work by measuring the ions or electrically charged particles in the air.
Photoelectric Smoke Detectors
Effective at detecting slow, smoldering fires, these detectors use a light source and a sensor to detect increased levels of smoke.
Dual-Sensor Smoke Detectors
A combination of both ionization and photoelectric technologies, these detectors aim to provide comprehensive fire detection by being responsive to both flaming and smoldering fires.
Combo Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These detectors not only alert occupants to the presence of smoke but also to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, making them particularly useful in properties with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.
Search Rental Real Estate
Try searching out site for hundreds of rental property topics ranging from property management, investor tool reviews, investment research, and more.
Who is Responsible for Installing Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors in a Rental Property?
Landlords are typically responsible for installing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in rental properties. This responsibility is mandated by most local housing codes to ensure tenant safety and property compliance with fire safety regulations. The installation must meet specific criteria, such as the number of detectors and their placement in key areas like bedrooms and living spaces. Landlords must ensure these devices are operational at the beginning of a tenancy. Tenants, however, are usually responsible for notifying the landlord if a detector becomes non-functional during their occupancy.
Who is Responsible for Replacing Batteries in Rental Property Smoke Detectors?
The responsibility for replacing batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors can vary. In many cases, landlords are responsible for ensuring that the batteries are functional at the start of a new tenancy and may handle replacements during routine inspections. However, tenants are often responsible for replacing batteries during their occupancy, especially if the detectors are battery-operated and not hardwired. The lease agreement should clearly outline who is responsible for battery replacements. Regardless, both parties should prioritize this task to maintain safety.
More Rental Property Building Products
About the Author
Ryan Nelson
I’m an investor, real estate developer, and property manager with hands-on experience in all types of real estate from single family homes up to hundreds of thousands of square feet of commercial real estate. RentalRealEstate is my mission to create the ultimate real estate investor platform for expert resources, reviews and tools. Learn more about my story.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal and/or financial advice. As such, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Please review our Editorial Standards for more info.