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 Wisconsin, state statutes require landlords to install and maintain smoke detectors in all residential rental properties. According to Wisconsin Statute 101.149, smoke detectors must be installed in the basement and on each floor level, except the attic or storage areas, of all dwelling units. The law also mandates that smoke detectors be installed within six inches of the ceiling and that they be maintained in working condition. Additionally, Wisconsin law requires carbon monoxide detectors to be installed and maintained in any residential rental property that has fuel-burning appliances, an attached garage, or a fireplace, as per Wisconsin Statute 101.647. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that these devices are operational at the beginning of a tenancy, while tenants are generally responsible for the maintenance and battery replacement during their occupancy, unless the lease specifies otherwise.