Smoke and carbon monoxide detector regulations

Since 1^st October 2015 landlords in England have been required to ensure:

• A smoke alarm is installed in each storey of a property which contains a room being used (wholly or partly) as living accommodation; and
• Carbon monoxide alarms are fitted in every room with a solid fuel heating appliance.

As of 1^st October 2022, the requirement to fit carbon monoxide alarms is expanded to include any room being used as ‘living accommodation’ with a fixed combustion appliance (gas cookers excluded). A ‘fixed combustion appliance’ includes fixed apparatus where fuel of any type (such as gas, oil, coal, wood) is burned to generate heat. This includes gas or oil boilers, and log-burning stoves.

Prior to 1^st October 2022 landlords were only required to test carbon monoxide alarms were working at the outset of the tenancy. This is expanded and landlords now have a duty throughout the tenancy, upon being notified by a tenant, to repair or replace any faulty alarms.

These regulations apply to houses, flats and HMOs. Failure to comply can lead to a civil penalty being imposed of up to £5,000.

How Pinney Talfourd can help

Pinney Talfourd are experts in commercial and residential property litigation and can advise you on changes to the law so you are given up to date advice.

Please do not hesitate to contact either Stephen Eccles on 01708 463202 or Oliver-James Topping on 01708 463227 should you wish to discuss anything further.