Ontario’s New Carbon Monoxide Detector Rules For 2026

Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the “silent killer”, a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that can be deadly without warning. In response to ongoing public safety concerns, the Ontario government has updated provincial fire safety rules to better protect residents and visitors against the dangers of CO exposure.

These changes, which take effect January 1, 2026, expand where and how carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in homes and residential buildings. 

What’s Changing Under the Ontario Fire Code

Previously, Ontario’s Fire Code required carbon monoxide alarms only near sleeping areas in homes that contain fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces or attached garages.

As of January 1, 2026:

  • CO alarms must be installed on every storey of the home, including floors without bedrooms. 
  • Alarms are still required adjacent to all sleeping areas. 
  • Requirements apply to detached homes, townhouses, apartments, condos, and other residential occupancies with fuel-burning sources. 
  • Expanded rules also apply to buildings with care occupancies (e.g., retirement homes) and multi-unit buildings with shared fuel equipment. 

CO alarms can be hardwired, battery-operated, or plug-in (including combination smoke/CO units), as long as they meet the applicable safety standards. 

These updates bring Ontario’s fire safety rules in line with modern standards and acknowledge that CO can travel unpredictably within a building, making detection on every level essential for early warning. 

Why These Rules Matter

Carbon monoxide is produced whenever fuels like natural gas, propane, oil or wood don’t burn completely. Common sources include:

  • Furnaces
  • Water heaters
  • Fireplaces
  • Stoves and ovens
  • Attached garages with running vehicles
  • Portable generators or heaters

Because CO can’t be detected by human senses alone, the only way to know it’s present is with a working alarm, and faster detection can save lives. Ajax.ca

How This Ties Into Home Insurance

At PetleyHare Insurance Brokers, we want homeowners to know that these safety changes are not just about compliance, they can also impact your home insurance.

Stronger Safety Practices May Lower Risk

Insurance underwriters consider risk reduction measures when setting premium rates. Having functioning CO alarms on every level of your home helps demonstrate proactive risk management, which can be favourable when assessing your home insurance policy.

Smart safety upgrades, like CO detectors in every stairwell and near bedrooms, may reduce the likelihood of a serious loss from CO poisoning or related property damage.

Claims Can Be Affected by Safety Compliance

If a claim is filed after a CO incident and it’s found that the home wasn’t in compliance with the Fire Code (e.g., missing alarms where required), this could complicate the claims process or even result in a denial or reduction of benefits, particularly if negligence can be shown. Always ensure you’re compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

Document Your Safety Measures

Keep records of CO alarm purchases, installation receipts, and periodic testing logs. These can be helpful during a renewal review or if you ever need to support a claim.

How This Impacts Businesses

Although the updated rules primarily apply to residential spaces, business owners should also be aware of how CO safety ties into their property and liability coverage:

  • Commercial properties with attached residential units (like mixed-use buildings) will have new CO alarm requirements in those units.
  • Businesses with fuel-burning equipment (boilers, furnaces, generators) should ensure detection systems are in place and functioning, and that policies reflect those safety practices.
  • Insurance premiums and inspections for business property coverage often take risk controls into account. Regular CO detector maintenance and documentation are part of good risk management.
Carbon Monoxide Detector

Tips for Homeowners & Business Owners

  • Install CO alarms on every storey and near all sleeping areas. 
  • Test them monthly and replace batteries as recommended. 
  • Replace alarms entirely at the end of their service life. 
  • Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician. 

Official Ontario Government Resource

To learn more about the updated carbon monoxide alarm requirements in Ontario, including details on where alarms must be placed and which homes are covered, you can consult the official Ontario government guidance PDF:

Ontario Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements for Homes (Dec 2025)

Keep Your Family and Property Protected

Updating your carbon monoxide safety is about more than just following the law, it’s about protecting the people and property you care about most. It’s also a smart part of a comprehensive insurance plan.

At PetleyHare Insurance Brokers, we’re here to help you understand how safety measures like CO detection can tie into your home and business insurance, and make sure you’re properly covered.

Want to review your insurance coverage or get personalized advice? Contact our team today, we’re here to help you stay safe and protected.