Bill > HB1463

This bill, known as the Smoke Alarm Responsibility Act, establishes clear guidelines for smoke alarm requirements in rental dwelling units, defining responsibilities for both property owners and tenants. For owners, the bill mandates that they equip their dwelling units with approved smoke alarms within 24 months of the act's effective date, ensuring these alarms meet specific standards like having a long-lasting battery, being electrically powered, or using wireless communication, and are listed according to specific safety certifications. Owners must replace missing or non-functioning alarms before new tenants move in and must address any smoke alarm deficiencies reported by tenants within 96 hours. Tenants, in turn, are responsible for maintaining the smoke alarms in good condition, testing them annually, and notifying owners of any issues, while being prohibited from removing or disabling the devices. The bill does not require structural modifications to properties and does not mandate replacing smoke alarms less than 10 years old. Violations of the act constitute a summary offense punishable by a fine up to $50, and the legislation will take effect 120 days after its passage, providing time for property owners and tenants to comply with the new requirements.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1463