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Alaska · AS 18.70.095Alaska smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: required in every dwelling, so check them before closing

Alaska requires smoke detection devices to be installed and maintained in all dwelling units in the state, of a type and in a manner approved by the state fire marshal (AS 18.70.095(a)). Carbon monoxide detection devices with an alarm must be installed and maintained, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, in every qualifying dwelling unit: one that contains or is serviced by a carbon-based-fueled appliance or device producing combustion by-products, has an attached garage or carport, or is adjacent to a parking space (AS 18.70.095(a), (d)(3)). In rentals the landlord provides working devices at each occupancy and the tenant keeps them working (AS 18.70.095(b)). The section applies to every dwelling unit rather than setting a separate certificate at sale, so the devices should already be in place when a home changes hands. A violation is a class B misdemeanor, while a violation of the carbon monoxide requirement is a violation (AS 18.70.100(a), (c)).

What the statute sets

  1. Smoke detectors (AS 18.70.095(a))

    In all dwelling units, of a type approved by the state fire marshal.

  2. CO detectors (AS 18.70.095(a), (d)(3))

    With an alarm, in units with fuel appliances, an attached garage or carport, or adjacent parking.

  3. Rentals (AS 18.70.095(b))

    Landlord provides working devices at each occupancy.

  4. Penalty (AS 18.70.100)

    Class B misdemeanor; a violation for the CO part.

What the TC checks on an Alaska home before closing

  • Ask whether the home has a fuel-burning appliance, an attached garage or carport, or adjacent parking – each makes CO detectors mandatory.
  • Note smoke and CO detectors in the inspection follow-up list.
  • For a tenant-occupied home, confirm the devices the landlord provided are working at the handover.

Questions about Alaska smoke and CO detectors

Does Alaska require carbon monoxide detectors in a house?

Yes, in every qualifying dwelling unit: one with a carbon-based-fueled appliance, an attached garage or carport, or adjacent to a parking space (AS 18.70.095(a), (d)(3)).

Who must provide smoke detectors in an Alaska rental?

The landlord, in working condition at each occupancy; the tenant keeps them working (AS 18.70.095(b)).

Related guides

Add a detector check to the inspection tasks on the deal in ClosingCode.

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Sources: Alaska Statutes 18.70.095, 18.70.100 (akleg.gov), read October 31, 2026.

General information, not legal advice. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.