Ontario Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Changes: What Property Owners Must Know for 2026

As of January 1, 2026, Ontario’s expanded carbon monoxide alarm requirements are officially in force. Property owners, landlords, and managers across Ontario are now required to comply with the updated Ontario Fire Code provisions. This is no longer a future requirement. It is the current law.

Many property owners are discovering that even if their building previously had carbon monoxide alarms installed, additional units may now be required. Fire departments are actively enforcing the updated standards. If your property has not been reviewed recently, it may be out of compliance.

This article explains what the law now requires, who is responsible, how it connects to the Ontario Fire Code, and what steps property owners should take immediately.

What Changed as of January 1, 2026

The Ontario Fire Code expanded carbon monoxide alarm requirements to increase life safety in residential occupancies.

Carbon monoxide alarms are now required on every level of a dwelling unit, including basements. The updated rules apply to existing homes, not only new construction. Multi unit residential buildings are included. The requirement also applies where fuel burning equipment is located in service rooms or where there is an attached garage.

Previously, alarms were commonly required only near sleeping areas. That is no longer sufficient. Every storey must now be protected.

If your property has not been assessed since these changes came into force, immediate review is strongly recommended.

Who the Requirements Apply To

The Ontario Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm changes apply to detached homes, semi detached homes, townhouses, cottages, rental properties, condominiums, and multi residential buildings.

Any building that contains fuel burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, or gas stoves must comply. Homes with attached garages must also comply.

The Ontario Fire Code applies to existing buildings regardless of age. Older homes and smaller rental properties are not exempt.

Legal Responsibility Under the Ontario Fire Code (Ontario Carbon Monoxide Alarm Changes)

The Ontario Fire Code, which is Ontario Regulation 213 07 under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, places responsibility on the owner.

The term owner includes property owners, landlords, property managers, and any person who has care and control of the building.

In rental properties, landlords must install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms. Tenants are responsible for not tampering with them, but the legal obligation to ensure alarms are present and functioning remains with the owner.

For properties overseen by professional firms such as IPS Property Management, compliance is typically coordinated through structured maintenance programs and documented inspections. However, the legal responsibility ultimately remains with the property owner.

Common Violations Being Identified in 2026

Since the expanded requirements came into effect, inspectors have been identifying several recurring issues.

Carbon monoxide alarms are missing on basement levels. Expired units remain installed beyond their manufacturer lifespan. Devices have been removed or disabled in rental units. Documentation confirming maintenance is not available. Emergency lighting logs are incomplete. Fire doors are wedged open. Combustible materials are stored in prohibited areas.

Penalties for Non Compliance

If a fire inspector identifies deficiencies, an Order to Comply may be issued. The order will specify a timeline for correction.

Failure to comply can result in charges under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act. Penalties may include significant fines and prosecution. In serious cases involving negligence, consequences may escalate further.

Non compliance also increases liability exposure and may affect insurance coverage in the event of an incident.

What Inspectors Now Expect

Inspectors reviewing residential properties now expect to see carbon monoxide alarms installed on every required level. Units must be within their expiry date and properly mounted. For multi residential buildings, inspectors may also review fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, extinguishers, emergency lighting, and Fire Safety Plan documentation.

Steps Ontario Property Owners Should Take Now

Property owners should conduct a full review of each unit. Confirm that a carbon monoxide alarm is installed on every level. Replace expired units immediately. Test devices and document the results. Ensure tenants understand their responsibilities.

For owners managing multiple properties, structured compliance tracking is strongly recommended. IPS Property Management assists property owners in Belleville,Trenton, Picton and surrounding areas in the Quinte West region by coordinating inspections, maintaining documentation, and ensuring that regulatory obligations are met on schedule.

Need Assistance With Fire Code Compliance

IPS Property Management supports property owners with Fire Code compliance programs. Services include carbon monoxide alarm audits, maintenance coordination, inspection preparation and documentation management.

If you are uncertain whether your property meets the current Ontario Fire Code requirements, now is the time to act. IPS Property Management can help ensure your buildings remain compliant, protected, and prepared for inspection throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is legally responsible for complying with the carbon monoxide alarm requirements?

The legal responsibility rests with the property owner under the Ontario Fire Code. In rental situations, landlords must ensure alarms are installed and maintained in working condition. Property managers may assist with coordination and oversight, but enforcement action is directed toward the owner. Owners who work with professional management companies such as IPS Property Management benefit from structured compliance tracking and documented maintenance programs. However, the owner remains ultimately accountable under the law.

How often do carbon monoxide alarms need to be replaced or tested?

Carbon monoxide alarms must be kept in operating condition at all times. Most manufacturers indicate a lifespan of five to ten years, after which the unit must be replaced. Owners should test alarms regularly and respond immediately to low battery or malfunction alerts. Documentation of installation and maintenance should be retained in case of inspection.

What happens if my property fails a Fire Code inspection?

If deficiencies are identified, the fire department may issue an Order to Comply outlining required corrections and deadlines. Owners must address the issues within the specified timeframe. Failure to comply can result in charges under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, which may include fines or prosecution. In addition to legal consequences, unresolved violations can increase liability risk. 

Does this apply to small rental properties and older homes?

Yes, the Ontario Fire Code applies to existing buildings regardless of their age or size. Even a single family rental home must comply with the updated carbon monoxide alarm requirements. Older construction does not provide exemption from current life safety standards. Smaller landlords are often at greater risk of oversight because formal compliance systems may not be in place. Professional property management support can help ensure that even small portfolios remain fully compliant.

What should I look for when buying smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in Canada?

When purchasing smoke or CO alarms, the most critical factor is ensuring they meet Canadian safety standards. Look for a recognized Canadian certification mark, such as CSA, cUL, ULC, or cETL, printed directly on the device itself, not just the packaging.

To ensure your home's safety, follow these three steps before you buy:

Verify Certification: If the product listing doesn't clearly show a Canadian certification mark, ask the seller for confirmation before purchasing. If you remain unsure, do not buy the product.

Check the Seller: Buy from reputable retailers. Be cautious on large online marketplaces where third-party sellers may operate outside of Canada, making it difficult to contact them for support or liability issues.

Search for Recalls: Before installing, check the Government of Canada’s Recalls and Safety Alerts database to ensure the model hasn't been flagged for health or safety risks.