Smoke detector installation cost
Adding missing smoke detectors, replacing old or broken ones, and combination smoke and CO detectors.
Missing smoke detectors are the most common safety finding in recent HomeCloud evaluations. The National Fire Protection Association says smoke detectors belong in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every floor, and should be replaced when they're 10 years old. See where to put smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Many homes use combination detectors that sense both smoke and carbon monoxide. Hardwired detectors are wired into the house and often connected so that when one sounds, they all do. Battery detectors mount anywhere.
What our reports priced these at
| Work | Most homes | Middle price | Based on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Install smoke and/or CO detectors | $190 to $390 | $280 | The 41% of homes where it was priced |
| Install a smoke detector base and unit | $170 to $430 | $310 | The 7% of homes where it was priced |
What HomeCloud reports priced this fix at in homes we evaluated Sep 2025 to Oct 2026. The range is the middle half of homes; the middle price is the median. Your price comes from a written estimate for your home.
What affects the price
- How many detectors
- The price grows with the number of bedrooms, hallways and floors that need one.
- Hardwired or battery
- Replacing a hardwired detector with a matching one is simple. Adding a new hardwired detector means running wire, which costs more.
- Combination detectors
- Detectors that sense both smoke and carbon monoxide cost more than smoke-only ones.
- Ceiling height
- High or vaulted ceilings take a taller ladder and more time.
Common questions
How often should I test my smoke detectors?
Press the test button about once a month. Change batteries when the detector chirps, and replace the whole detector when it reaches the replace-by date printed on it.
My report says a detector is "old." How can I tell?
Most detectors have a manufacture or replace-by date printed on the back. Twist it off its base to check.
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