5^th August 2022

New regulations for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

In a move to offer added peace of mind and protection for tenants across the UK, the government is introducing amendments to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations which were originally enacted on 1 October 2015. As a result, the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 will come into force seven years to the day after the initial incarnation on 1 October this year.

In summary, the amended regulations state that all landlords are required to:

• install a minimum of one smoke alarm on every floor of their rental property where a room is used as living accommodation. This requirement was included in the original regulations issued in 2015.
• install a carbon monoxide alarm in all rooms that are used as living accommodation and contain a fixed combustion appliance (excluding a gas cooker).
• repair or replace any faulty smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as soon as a problem is brought to their attention.

The requirements of the regulations can be enforced by the local authority which has the power to impose a maximum fine of £5,000 should any landlord fail to comply.

The full guidance – including an exhaustive FAQs section – is available here.

As Andrew Ward, owner of Award Property Management, explains, his agency’s approach has always been to support landlords and tenants in this area. ‘We’ve been aware of the new regulations around smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for several months now,’ comments Andrew. ‘To stay ahead of the game, we’ve therefore incorporated thorough smoke and carbon monoxide alarm checks into all our property inspections in preparation for the new regulations.

‘These checks have allowed us to replace faulty alarms or install new ones in readiness so that all our landlord clients are compliant from day one. And when it comes to tenants, we’ve been asking them to test their alarms regularly and to contact us for advice and assistance should they have any concerns whatsoever.’

Award Property Management are estate and letting agents in Cambridge. If you need any help in complying with the upcoming smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations, please call us on 01223 253703 or complete our enquiry form.