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Important Smoke Alarm Information

Ontario's Smoke Alarm Legislation Has Changed

Be Aware Of Your Rights And Responsibilities 

The fire code makes it mandatory to have working smoke alarms in every dwelling unit in the province of Ontario.  Because of the essential nature of smoke alarms as an early warning system in the event of fire, the code allows for penalties for various infractions.  The following are the offences identified:

Fire Code Reference	Offence	Fine
Article 2.13.2.3.	Fail to install smoke alarms as required	$195.00
Article 6.3.3.2.	Fail to maintain smoke alarms in operating condition	$195.00
Article 6.3.3.3.	Fail to provide smoke alarm maintenance instructions to occupant	$195.00
Article 6.3.3.4.	Intentionally disable smoke alarm to make it inoperable	$195.00
Article 6.3.3.5.	Replace smoke alarm with reduced level of detection	$195.00

Please note that in addition to the above fines, there is a "victim surcharge" of $35.00 and a set court fee of $5.00 for each offence for a total of $235.00.  While the infractions apply to all dwellings, whether owned or rented, landlords and tenants should pay special attention to the wording of the offences.  The owner is obligated to maintain smoke alarms in rental units and must check them on a yearly basis.   When a tenant makes the landlord aware that an alarm is malfunctioning, the landlord must act immediately to rectify the problem.  All rental dwelling units must be equipped with enough smoke alarms to comply with the fire code and that is the obligation of the landlord.  If a tenant removes a battery or otherwise disables a smoke alarm, they could also face a fine.  Tenants or landlords with concerns regarding the above offences should call our Fire Prevention Division at 519 661-2500 Ext. 4565.

For essential information on the usage and importance of smoke alarms, click Here

London Fire Services
400 Horton Street East
London, Ontario N6B 1L7 

Telephone Number:  519 661-2500 Ext. 5279
Fax Number:  519 661-8419