Under most commercial leases—and applicable building codes—the landlord is generally responsible for installing and maintaining fire protection, including smoke detector and sprinkler systems.
But commercial tenants are usually responsible for maintaining smoke and carbon monoxide detectors within their leased premises, including testing the devices regularly and changing the batteries when necessary. Commercial tenants also generally have a responsibility not to obstruct or hinder fire escape routes or to create or maintain fire hazards within the leased premises.
In Alaska, as in many states, the landlord of a commercial property is typically responsible for the installation and maintenance of fire protection systems, such as smoke detectors and sprinkler systems, in accordance with building codes and the terms of the commercial lease. This responsibility is grounded in the need to ensure the safety and compliance of the building as a whole. On the other hand, commercial tenants have the duty to maintain the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors within their specific leased areas. This includes regular testing and battery replacement to ensure the devices are operational. Additionally, tenants must avoid obstructing fire escape routes and refrain from creating fire hazards. These responsibilities are often outlined in the lease agreement and are also part of the tenants' obligations to maintain a safe environment within their control.