This update to Ottawa’s safety by-law aims to reduce the risk of CO poisoning, especially in older homes, multi-story properties, and houses with fuel-burning appliances. As real estate professionals, we’re already preparing buyers and sellers for this shift — because compliance will absolutely matter during home inspections.

What This Means for Homeowners

If your home has more than one level — even a finished basement — you’ll now need a CO detector installed on each floor. That includes:

• Basement

• Main level

• Second floor

• Third floor / loft levels

• Any additional storys

Homes with gas furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, attached garages, or anything that burns fuel are especially at risk — and will be expected to comply.

Why This Matters in Real Estate

Beginning in 2026, expect CO alarms to become a standard checklist item for:

• Pre-listing preparations

• Home inspections

• Buyer conditions and offers

• Insurance approvals

Missing alarms may slow down a sale, trigger repair requests, or impact buyer confidence. Thankfully, CO detectors are inexpensive, easy to install, and a fast way to upgrade safety — and protect property value.

Bottom Line

Installing CO detectors on every floor is a simple step that makes your home safer, compliant, and more appealing to future buyers. If you’re thinking of selling in 2026 or beyond, it’s smart to get ahead of the requirement now.

The post Ottawa’s New CO Alarm By-Law: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Jan 1, 2026 appeared first on Home For Sale In Ottawa.