By Rosalind Russell – As of January 1st, 2026, CO Alarms will no longer be an option, they will be required in all residences including long-term care facilities, group home, and cottages.
According to the Espanola Fire Fighters Association, the law has been passed that all residences must have carbon monoxide alarms installed if the structure houses a fireplace, fuel-burning appliance or heated air system.
The alarms should be installed near bedrooms and there should be one for each storey of a residence.
Homeowners and landlords are responsible for their installation.
It is also advised that all smoke alarms, which should also be installed in cooking areas, separate bedrooms and on each storey, should be installed and/or checked that they are still working.
Inspections in 2026 will include checking for both installations in all residences.
All existing buildings containing Care Occupancies (e.g., Convalescent Homes, Residential Care Facilities, some Group Homes, etc.)
Where are CO Alarms Required?
In Suites:
• With a fuel-burning appliance
• Located above, below, or beside a garage
• Located above, below, or beside a service room with a fuel-burning appliance
• Heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance not contained within the suite
CO alarms must be placed:
• Near sleeping areas
• on every storey of a unit, even storeys without a sleeping area
In Service Rooms: CO alarms are required in service rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
Action Steps:
• Determine if CO alarms are needed and where they must be installed.
• Make sure you buy CO alarms with a recognized testing logo (like CSA, ULC or ETL). Read the instructions for key installation information.
• Establish a clear maintenance and replacement schedule.
Need help understanding the Fire Code requirements that apply to your building?
Contact your local Fire Department—they are the Fire Code enforcement authority.
Photo: unsplash.com
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