Over the weekend, I was once again reminded of the importance of carbon monoxide detectors. Sadly, it was reported that one person died and a total of nine families were displaced from their apartment complex in Colorado Springs due to high levels of carbon monoxide. As a reminder, Colorado has a state law that mandates:
- Any single family dwelling or unit in a multi-family dwelling offered for sale or transfer on or after July 1, 2009, is required to have carbon monoxide detectors if the unit has a fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace or attached garage;
- Any new construction of a single family dwelling or unit in a multi-family dwelling in which building permits are issued on or after July 1, 2009, is required to have carbon monoxide detectors if the unit has a fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace or attached garage;
- Rental units must be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors and landlords would be required to provide maintenance and replacement of the detectors when notified by tenants of such a need.
Depending upon the requirements of governing documents, condominium and some townhome associations may also be required to ensure the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in units. If you have questions about your responsibility for detectors, call one of our attorneys.