As usual, California is at the forefront when it comes to new and creative ways to regulate just about everything from how we use energy to what we can do in our homes. And 2011 is no exception. Here are two new laws you need to know about that were created to help us homeowners be a little safer.
SB 183 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2010
This law requires a carbon monoxide detector be installed in any existing home "intended for human occupancy" that has a fossil fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. This includes rental properties.
Previously homeowners selling their homes were required to have their water heater braced and have working smoke detectors before transfer of title. Now they are required to have carbon monoxide detectors as well.
Although the law states the lack of carbon monoxide detectors does not invalidate a transfer of title, it does state that a violation of this law is punishable by a maximum fine of $200 for each offense. It also requires that the property owner receive a 30-day notice to correct prior to the imposition of the fine.
To read the detailed description of this new law in SB 183, Click Here.
For a fact sheet from the Environmental Protection Agency outlining symptoms of poisoning, as well as prevention tips, Click Here.
Sprinkler Systems Requirement in New Homes
Beginning in 2011, new homes built throughout California, and in some other states, are required to be equipped with a fire sprinkler system.
According o the National Fire Protection Association, in a five-year time period the death rate per 1,000 reported home fires was 83% lower when sprinkler systems were installed in homes.
What is this going to cost consumers who want to build new homes? The cost is estimated at approximately $4,000 to $5,000 per house, or an average of an extra $2.00 per square foot.
This could potentially hurt the already fragile new home building industry, so some believe retrofitting older homes with sprinkler systems would be money better spent. Bob Raymer, of the California Building Industry Association, says, "It is extremely rare to see a fire fatality in a home built after 1992."
Whether or not the builders or the building industry associations agree, the law is here to stay.
How does it work? The sprinklers are activated by intense heat, and are designed to keep the fire under control long enough for residents to get out of the burning home, and give the fire department time to arrive on the scene to extinguish the fire.
To read more about this new law go to www.pe.com.