Record the location
Use a consistent name such as “upstairs north bedroom” or “basement stair landing.” Include every bedroom, hallway, level and combination unit.
Record the device
Note whether it is smoke, CO or combination; hardwired or battery-only; interconnected or standalone; and the manufacturer and model. A label photo is useful.
Record the dates
Capture manufacture, installation and replace-by dates where available. For smoke alarms, plan replacement by ten years; for CO alarms, follow the model’s stated life.
Keep the record active
Add monthly test dates, battery changes, chirps and replacements. Detector Inspectors can help establish the inventory during a whole-home service visit.
Safety references
Primary sources used for this page:
Manufacturer instructions and current local requirements control. For an emergency, call 911.