Carbon monoxide detectors to be required in subsidized housing

More than 150 people die in the United States each year from accidental non-fire related carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. When a fossil fuel-burning appliance or device, such as a heater, isn’t working properly, CO poisoning can occur.

Effective Aug. 1, the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency will require CO detectors in rental units where Housing Choice Voucher participants reside. Inoperable or missing detection devices in any dwelling that contains a fossil fuel-burning appliance or with an attached garage must be repaired or replaced within 24 hours. CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.

When it comes to Low Income Housing Tax Credits units, detectors are required in all post-2018 awarded units with fire-fuel burning appliances or attached garages. HUD strongly recommends them in all other units.