Understanding Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements.
I think most people understand the importance of having smoke detectors in their homes, but Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors are equally important. The requirements for these detectors can be confusing, they change frequently, and can vary according to jurisdiction and the type of construction. The best information I can find states that Texas still has no statewide laws requiring CO detectors. Current reports state that Texas H.B. No. 3209, 89th Legislature (2025), mandating carbon monoxide detectors in various properties, was introduced in February 2025, but has not been approved. Even though no statewide requirement is currently in place, carbon monoxide detectors can be required by local jurisdictions. They particularly important in houses with attached garages, and houses that burn certain fuels in household appliances.
The Center for Disease Control states that carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, colorless gas, claims hundreds of lives each year and makes thousands more ill. CO is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels, including propane, natural gas, fuel oils, coal, and wood, which are burned in appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, dryers, stoves, and fireplaces. It is also emitted by gas powered vehicles, and carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when vehicle exhaust enters the house through an attached garage. That’s why it is critical that houses with attached garages and those that burn these referenced fuels have CO detectors in place.
At a minimum, smoke detectors should be located within all sleeping areas, and on every level of a house, including basements and habitable attics. Carbon monoxide detectors should be located on all levels of the house, and should be installed outside of all sleeping areas, within 10’ of any bedroom door; combination smoke/ carbon detectors work well in these areas. To confirm the type of an existing detector, remove it from the mounting bracket and check the label on the back side of it. For additional smoke and CO detector information, please click here.
Walsh Building Company is Now Offering Red Flag Inspections & Repair Options to Sellers at a Greatly Reduced Cost, Details are shown below!
The components of a house that work together to ensure its functionality, comfort, and safety are commonly referred to as the house’s Essential Systems. These components include Foundation, Roof, Electrical Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and overall Structural Integrity. Deficiencies found in these components are referred to by Inspectors as Red Flags. A complete home inspection requires Inspectors to provide a written opinion of the condition of Grading, Interior and Exterior Walls, Ceilings, Floors, Cabinets, Doors, Windows, Electrical Fixtures, Plumbing Fixtures, and Appliances; components that are seen, operated, and easily evaluated daily by the homeowner.
This limited Inspection excludes those easily evaluated items, allowing us to lower the cost, and instead focus upon evaluation of the property’s major operating systems, also known as it’s Essential Systems. As a general contractor, I’ve built and sold many homes, and I understand that when Buyers find their Dream Home, they don’t want to worry about defects and costly repairs; these Red Flag issues can be deal killers.
Walsh Building Company is now offering Red Flag Inspection options to Sellers wanting to improve the appearance and performance of their properties before marketing commences, we feel it has the potential to retain Buyer interest, expedite closing, and produce better overall sales results. We are also working to assemble a team of skilled craftsmen capable of correcting these Deficiencies. If you are an experienced and reliable craftsman interested in working with a local contractor with a reputation for producing quality results, we would like to hear from you as well. To request additional information about what is included in our Red Flag Inspections, please visit the Contact Page of this website.
As always, Walsh Inspection Services will continue to provide pre-purchase Inspections for Buyers, please contact us with any questions you might have.
Previously Posted Red Flag Issues
A Dryer Vent blocked by a screen will trap lint, creating a Fire Safety Issue!
A high voltage water heater contacting a soaking tub is a BIG Red Flag!
