A landlord’s guide to smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in rental properties

Fire safety is a crucial aspect of property management, especially for rental properties.

Landlords are legally required to ensure their properties are equipped with appropriate smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to protect tenants from harm and avoid potential legal issues. Non-compliance can result in significant fines and costly fire damage claims. In the UK, the average fire damage claim is £19,527, rising to £51,138 in London.

This article will outline the necessary regulations for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in rental properties and provide answers to common questions landlords may have.

Is it a legal requirement to have smoke alarms in rented property?

According to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015: “Private sector landlords are required from 1 October 2015 to have at least one smoke alarm installed on every storey of their properties and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a solid fuel burning appliance (e.g. a coal fire, wood burning stove).”

For instance, a two-storey rental house must have at least one smoke alarm on each floor. Additionally, any room with a solid fuel-burning appliance, such as a wood burner in the living room, also requires a smoke alarm.

This rule does not extend to gas or electric ovens, which might seem surprising given the kitchen’s fire risk. The Fire Service explains: “Alarms installed in kitchens should be heat alarms rather than smoke alarms to avoid frequent false alarms from cooking. Optical smoke alarms or combined smoke and heat alarms should be installed just outside the kitchen, in areas like the hallway or dining room.”

Is it a legal requirement to have CO alarms in rental properties?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colourless, odourless gas produced by incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels like gas, oil, wood, and coal. Breathing in CO can be fatal.

In England, landlords must install carbon monoxide alarms if the property has a solid fuel-burning appliance. This includes fireplaces, wood stoves, or any fuel-burning heaters. Even if you only have one fuel-burning appliance, a CO alarm is essential.

Where should smoke alarms be installed?

Smoke alarms should be mounted on ceilings, as smoke rises. Place them centrally in the room, away from walls or light fittings. Consider their audibility in bedrooms to ensure tenants can hear them while sleeping.

For single-level properties or flats, the best location for a smoke alarm is typically in the hallway between living areas and bedrooms. If bedrooms contain large electrical appliances, such as TVs, installing smoke alarms there is also advisable.

Where should carbon monoxide alarms be installed?

Proper placement of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is crucial for their effectiveness. The Fire Service offers the following guidance for CO alarm installation:

• Install the alarm in the main bedroom or hallway outside sleeping areas if you have only one.
• Place an alarm on every level of the home and in sleeping areas.
• Position the alarm at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances.
• Ensure nothing obstructs or covers the unit.
• Avoid placing alarms in dead air spaces or next to windows or doors.
• Test CO alarms weekly using the test/reset button.
• Monthly, unplug the unit and clean it with a soft-brush attachment or a dry cloth to remove dust.

What type of alarms should a landlord install?

While no specific alarms are mandated, landlords should research the best options for their properties. Remember that heat detectors do not replace smoke alarms. Always follow manufacturer instructions for installation.

Types of smoke alarms include:

• Ionisation: Sensitive to small smoke particles from fast flaming fires like paper or wood.
• Optical: Better for larger smoke particles from slow-burning fires such as foam-filled furniture.
• Heat Alarms: Detect temperature increases and are ideal for kitchens.

Combined smoke and heat alarms or combined smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are also available.

Who can fit a smoke alarm?

For maximum safety, have a qualified Part P and Gas Safe Engineer install your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If you choose to install them yourself, ensure an engineer checks them during their next visit to your property for an expert review.

How often should a landlord check a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm?

Regulations for checking alarms differ slightly across the UK. The Propertymark guide provides a clear summary of these rules.

Beyond legal checks, landlords should test alarms during property visits. Advise tenants to test alarms when the clocks change and to gently vacuum the sensors to remove dust.

Batteries should be replaced annually unless the alarm has a ten-year battery. After ten years, replace the entire alarm.

Landlords must ensure alarms are operational at the start of each new tenancy and provide proof of this.

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