907.2.11.5 Installation of residential smoke alarms in existing structures Smoke alarms must be placed in the following structures, as required by the Uniform Statewide Building Code, in accordance with the authority given in Section 15.2-922 of the Code of Virginia (1950, as amended): 1. All buildings comprising one (1) or more residential units. 2. Multiunit dwellings consisting of not more than four (4) stories or 45 meters (148 feet) or less in height. 3. Hospitals. The installation requirements contained in 907.2.11.5 of the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) "Code for Smoke Alarms in Residential Buildings" apply to smoke alarms purchased after January 1, 1999. An appliance that complies with the UL 1442 standard is approved for use in residential applications. Prior to January 1, 1999, the requirement that smoke alarms be installed in all dwelling units was found in Article 7 of the Code which provided: "Smoke alarms shall be installed in all sleeping rooms and on all floors of the building." This requirement has been removed from the Code because there is no evidence that it reduces fire deaths or injuries. However, owners are still encouraged to install smoke alarms in their homes. In addition to the mandatory installations mentioned above, NFPA recommends that you install smoke alarms in other important areas such as kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, and porches. You should also install them in child's bedrooms and bathrooms.