THUNDER BAY, ON – A landlord in Thunder Bay has been fined for not installing essential smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in a townhouse rented to students on Varsity Place. The violation came to light after a complaint prompted an inspection by Thunder Bay Fire Rescue.
“Only functioning smoke alarms can provide the early warning needed to escape a fire,” noted Deputy Fire Chief Dave Tarini. “Any violation regarding smoke alarms will result in a ticket.”
The landlord received a fixed fine of $360; however, penalties can be much steeper. Individuals can face fines of up to $50,000, while corporations could be fined up to $100,000 for breaches of Part 3 of the Ontario Building Code, which deals with smoke alarm requirements.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords must adhere to specific legal duties, including:
- Annual Testing: Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms need to be tested every year or whenever a new tenant moves in.
- Record Keeping: Landlords are required to keep records of these tests.
- Providing Instructions: Tenants must receive the manufacturer’s instructions for the alarms.
Thunder Bay Fire Rescue also reminds all residents that smoke alarms are mandatory on every floor of a home and outside all sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide alarms must be placed outside sleeping areas in homes that contain a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. Additionally, landlords who rent to students should be mindful that occupancy is limited