Virginia § 36-99.5:1 - Smoke alarms and other fire detection and suppression systems in assisted living facilities, adult day centers and nursing homes and facilities
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 36-99.5:1 — Smoke alarms and other fire detection and suppression systems in assisted living facilities, adult day centers and nursing homes and facilities, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 36-99.5:1. Smoke alarms and other fire detection and suppression systems in assisted living facilities, adult day centers and nursing homes and facilities
A. Battery operated or AC powered smoke alarm devices shall be installed in all assisted living facilities and adult day centers licensed by the Department of Social Services, regardless of when the building was constructed. The location and installation of the smoke alarms shall be determined by the Building Code.
The licensee shall obtain a certificate of compliance from the building official of the locality in which the facility or center is located, or in the case of state-owned buildings, from the Department of General Services.
The licensee shall maintain the smoke alarm devices in good working order.
B. The Board of Housing and Community Development shall promulgate regulations in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.) establishing standards for requiring (i) smoke alarms and (ii) such other fire detection and suppression systems as deemed necessary by the Board to increase the safety of persons in assisted living facilities, residential dwelling units designed or developed and marketed to senior citizens, nursing homes, and nursing facilities. All nursing homes and nursing facilities that are already equipped with sprinkler systems shall comply with regulations relating to smoke alarms.
1988, c. 55; 1990, cc. 448, 703; 1992, c. 356; 1993, cc. 957, 993; 2004, c. 584; 2018, cc. 41, 81; 2024, cc. 37, 150.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 36-99.5:1
What does Code of Virginia § 36-99.5:1 cover?
Section 36-99.5:1 ("Smoke alarms and other fire detection and suppression systems in assisted living facilities, adult day centers and nursing homes and facilities") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 36-99.5:1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 36-99.5:1" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 36-99.5:1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.