YES!!! We cannot emphasize enough the importance of properly located and maintained smoke detectors in the home. Without a doubt, they are the simplest, cheapest and most cost effective way to provide early warning against fire. Smoke detectors have been required by law since the early 1970's in all new homes built in the State of New Jersey. Requirements for the type, location and number of smoke detectors have changed over the years. All smoke detectors within the dwelling unit must be installed and maintained in accordance with NFPA 74. All AC powered smoke detectors must be audibly inter-connected. Each level of the dwelling unit and within 10 feet of each sleeping area is required to have either an AC or a DC powered smoke detector installed. The table below provides you with the requirements of the Construction Code regarding the number of and type of smoke detectors that are required based on the year the dwelling unit was built and that the dwelling unit must meet the new requirements of the Code. (detectors on each level)
Pre 1975 - battery powered smoke detector on any level 1975-1977 - electric powered on uppermost level 1977-1983 - electric powered smoke detector on uppermost and basement level (if applicable) 1983-1991 - electric powered smoke detector on all levels 1991-present - electric powered smoke detector with a backup battery powered smoke detector on each level and in each sleeping area.
During residential smoke detector inspections, inspectors will be enforcing Mount Laurel Township Local Ordinance 1985-12, Chapter 81, Section 81-24, which states that all smoke detectors must be less than 10 years old. Remember that the easiest way to maintain your smoke detectors is to test them when you change the battery each fall when you "
Change Your Clock, Change your Battery".