AL HB426

Amends Section 35-9A-204 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to add smoke alarms to the list of electrical and mechanical systems that landlords must maintain in good working order.

Requires landlords to supply batteries for smoke alarms upon initial tenant occupancy, with tenants responsible for replacing batteries thereafter.

Clarifies that smoke alarms are part of landlords' existing duty to maintain premises in habitable condition and comply with applicable building and housing codes.

Becomes effective January 1, 2020, following passage and gubernatorial approval.

Passed by House of Representatives on April 23, 2019, with a vote of 98 to 1.