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 Illinois, state statutes require landlords to install and maintain smoke detectors in leased residential premises. The Smoke Detector Act mandates that smoke detectors be installed in all dwelling units, and they must be in operating condition at the beginning of each lease. The detectors should be placed within 15 feet of every sleeping area and on every story of the dwelling unit. Additionally, Illinois law requires that landlords install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors in residential properties that have fuel-burning appliances, have a fireplace, or have an attached garage. These carbon monoxide detectors must be within 15 feet of sleeping areas. Both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and it is the responsibility of the tenant to test and to provide general maintenance during their tenancy, such as replacing batteries. However, the initial installation and ensuring the devices are in proper working order at the start of a lease remain the landlord's obligations.