All states have laws (statutes) that require landlords to install and maintain smoke detectors in leased residential premises (apartments, homes).

Some states such as Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Vermont require photoelectric or ionization sensors—at least in new construction. And Oregon requires smoke detectors with a HUSH mechanism that allows the alarm to be silenced or temporarily desensitized for 7 minutes while a known condition such as cooking is causing the alarm to activate.

Most states also require landlords to install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors in leased residential premises. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are widely available in the same device.

In Iowa, landlords are required by law to install and maintain smoke detectors in leased residential premises. The state mandates that these smoke detectors must be of a specific type, including either photoelectric or ionization sensors, particularly in new constructions. This requirement is in place to ensure that the smoke detectors are effective in detecting different types of fires. Additionally, Iowa law also requires the installation and maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors in residential rental properties. These regulations are designed to enhance the safety of residents by ensuring early detection of smoke and carbon monoxide, which can be life-threatening. It is common for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to be combined into a single device, which landlords may choose to install to comply with both requirements simultaneously.