Are carbon monoxide detectors required in a renovated NB home?

Yes, carbon monoxide detectors are required by law in all New Brunswick homes that have fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, and this requirement applies to renovated homes regardless of when they were originally built.

Under the New Brunswick Fire Prevention Act, carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in any dwelling that contains fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves) or has an attached garage. This includes homes with natural gas, propane, oil, or wood-burning equipment. The detectors must be installed outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home where bedrooms are located.

For renovation projects, this requirement becomes particularly important because many older NB homes were built before CO detector requirements existed. If your renovation involves any work that requires a building permit, the building inspector will verify that CO detectors are properly installed before issuing occupancy approval. Even cosmetic renovations that don't require permits should include CO detector installation if the home doesn't already have them — it's both a legal requirement and a critical safety measure.

Installation requirements specify that CO detectors must be hardwired with battery backup in new construction and major renovations involving electrical work. In existing homes, battery-operated or plug-in units with battery backup are acceptable. The detectors should be installed at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances to prevent false alarms from normal operation, but close enough to sleeping areas to wake occupants if CO levels become dangerous.

New Brunswick's climate makes CO poisoning risks particularly acute during winter months when homes are sealed tight and heating systems run continuously. Ice damming can block furnace vents, power outages can cause homeowners to use portable generators or camp stoves indoors, and older heating equipment may develop cracks or ventilation problems. A $30-50 CO detector can literally save your family's life.

During renovation projects, be especially vigilant about CO risks. Dust and debris can block furnace filters and ventilation systems, temporary heating sources may not be properly vented, and construction activities can damage gas lines or chimney systems. Many contractors will temporarily disconnect utilities during major renovations — ensure all fuel-burning appliances are properly reconnected and tested before reoccupying the home.

Replace CO detectors every 7-10 years regardless of whether they're still beeping during monthly tests. The sensors degrade over time and may not detect dangerous CO levels even if the unit appears to be functioning. If you're renovating an older NB home, check the manufacture dates on existing detectors — units from 2015 or earlier should be replaced.

Test CO detectors monthly and replace batteries annually, typically when clocks change for daylight saving time. If a CO detector sounds, immediately evacuate the home, call 911 from outside, and don't re-enter until emergency responders have cleared the building and identified the source of the CO leak.

Need help finding an experienced renovation contractor who understands NB safety requirements? New Brunswick Renovations can connect you with local professionals who ensure all code compliance during your project.