[Code 1991, § 8-116]
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
DWELLING UNIT
A single unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
OWNER
One or more persons, jointly or severally, in whom is vested:
A. 
All or part of the legal title to the property.
B. 
All or part of the beneficial ownership and a right to present use and enjoyment of the premises. The term shall include a mortgagee only when in possession.
SMOKE DETECTOR
A mechanical device capable of sensing visible or invisible products of combustion and which sounds an audible alarm upon such detection. Such a device may be powered by alternating current or by battery. All smoke detectors shall be of a type that has been approved by either Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., or the Factory Mutual Company.
[Code 1991, § 8-118]
A. 
Smoke detectors shall be installed in the following structures:
(1) 
In each dwelling unit located in multifamily residential buildings containing four or more dwelling units.
(2) 
In each hotel or motel room in hotels or motels providing overnight sleeping accommodations to one or more persons.
(3) 
In roominghouses, group homes, dormitories, and other public lodgings containing more than four rooms for sleeping purposes and regularly used to provide overnight sleeping accommodations.
B. 
All smoke detectors installed must be capable of sensing visible or invisible products of combustion and must have an operating audible alarm.
C. 
All smoke detectors must have a manual test switch.
D. 
All smoke detectors shall be either battery operated or alternating current powered units.
E. 
The owner of any unit which is rented or leased, at the beginning of each tenancy and at least annually thereafter, shall furnish the tenant with a certificate that all required smoke detectors are present, have been inspected, and are in good working order.
F. 
All smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with this Code and shall be placed in locations specified in the applicable section of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
[Code 1991, § 8-119]
A. 
The owner or the agent of the owner of a multifamily residential building containing four or more dwelling units shall provide smoke detectors, as required by § 42-163, in dwelling units and in enclosed hallways, stairwells, and other enclosed public or common areas (i.e., laundry rooms and storage rooms, etc.) and shall maintain such smoke detectors in good working order.
B. 
The owner or the agent of the owner of a dwelling unit which is rented or leased in a multifamily residential building containing four or more dwelling units shall furnish the tenant, at the beginning of each tenancy, and at least annually thereafter, with a written certificate that all smoke detectors required by § 42-163 are present, have been inspected, and are in good working order.
C. 
The tenant shall be responsible for reasonable care of the smoke detector in accordance with Code of Virginia, § 55-248.16, for interim testing thereof, and for providing written notice to the owner requesting immediate repair of any malfunctioning smoke detector. In accordance with Code of Virginia, § 55-248.13, the owner shall be obligated to provide and pay for service, repair, or replacement of any malfunctioning smoke detectors. Such service, repair or replacement must occur within five days of receipt of written notice from the tenant that a smoke detector is in need of service, repair, or replacement.
D. 
The owner or the agent of the owner of a dwelling unit which is rented or leased in a multifamily residential building containing four or more dwelling units shall provide written notification to the tenant of the responsibilities and duties imposed by Subsection C of this section.