South Charleston, WV – Leaks were found in the system after we launched a WSAZ Investigation surrounding a new West Virginia law requiring carbon monoxide detectors.
We uncovered hotels violating that law requiring a detection system, but our most recent findings examine the safety of apartments and rental homes.
WSAZ.com put landlords and renters to the test as NewsChannel 3’s Brooks Jarosz went door to door in search of carbon monoxide detectors. It’s a device that not only sniffs out the odorless gas, but also acts as a lifeline to prevent a toxic tragedy.
South Charleston Assistant Fire Chief Virgil White helped get a new state law passed requiring detectors in all rental properties with gas. We wanted to know if landlords and renters were in check, and what we found was disturbing.
We found one landlord had given renters detectors, even some extra batteries for backup. However, one woman took the batteries out and unplugged it from the wall.
“It wouldn’t quit beeping,” the woman said.
White responded, “Well, if it’s beeping, there’s probably a problem.”
Other renters told us they weren’t taking any chances with gas running through the building. But our investigation found not all landlords are a vigilant.
“It’s in their lease that they have to buy all safety equipment,” one landlord said.
“State law says it’s up to the landlord to provide smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors,” White responded.
“OK, fine, whatever, everybody needs to get one then,” the landlord said.
For those landlords who are not in compliance, they’re given a copy of the West Virginia state code. They are given 30 days to correct the problem or face a fine. A first offense is $250, and second and third offenses are $700 and $2000.
WSAZ.com found one renter who didn’t wait on his landlord and bought one himself. His landlord could be in trouble if he doesn’t get them for the other tenants.
“I’d hate to levy a fine on you for not doing so,” White said.
The landlord responded, “Exactly, if you say I’ve got to do it, I’ve got to do it.”
The law says carbon monoxide detectors are only required in rentals homes with gas. All-electric apartments are exempt.
Once a landlord puts a detector in your home, it’s your responsibility to maintain it.
WSAZ.com called several cities in our area, and many do random inspections to hold your landlords accountable. Charleston inspects properties at least once every two years.
A detector only costs about $30 and could save your life.