By Property Management Systems
PORTLAND, Ore. – Carbon Monoxide Poisoning is one of the top silent killers in the United States that kills up to 400 people per year and sends countless others to the hospital.
What most people don’t know is that carbon monoxide poisoning can be easily prevented by installing carbon monoxide detectors in a home.
What Are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are a headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” If you breathe in a lot of CO it can make you pass out or kill you. People who are sleeping or drunk can die from CO poisoning before they have symptoms.
Who is at risk from CO poisoning?
Everyone is at risk for CO poisoning. Infants, the elderly, people with chronic heart disease, anemia, or breathing problems are more likely to get sick from CO. Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, more than 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Required for Rental Properties in Oregon
Did you know that the State of Oregon requires owners to equip their rental properties with carbon monoxide detectors?
In Oregon, the law actually prohibits landlords from renting residential properties with a carbon monoxide source unless an approved carbon monoxide alarm is properly installed.
Where Can You Buy Carbon Monoxide Detectors?
Thankfully, in 2018 you can purchase Carbon Monoxide Detectors just about anywhere from stores like Home Depot to stores online.
A typical carbon monoxide detector costs between $50 to $100 depending on the model and brand of the carbon monoxide detector that you purchase.
How Can You Make Sure Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Running Properly?
The best way to ensure that carbon monoxide detectors are properly working at all times is to include an addendum with the lease agreement that outlines the various responsibilities. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide addendum with the lease agreement which verifies that working carbon monoxide detectors have been installed in compliance with the state laws. This is to protect you from any liability down the road.
The carbon monoxide detector addendum should also specify that the tenant is responsible for changing out the batteries twice per year. It should state that the tenant agrees not to tamper with the detector and that he or she will reimburse the landlord if the detector is damaged due to tampering.
Get Property Management Here
Are you planning on hiring a property manager for your Portland Oregon Rental Property? If so, contact Property Management Systems today by calling us at (503) 515-3170 or click here to connect with us online.
