LANDLORD ALERT | Just 30 days to go to ensure your properties are compliant with the NEW Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations!

***LANDLORD ALERT***

Just 30 days to go to ensure your properties are compliant with the NEW Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations!

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations came into force on 1^st October 2015

We remember it well – having to ensure that ALL rented properties had a working smoke alarm on each floor of the property, and a carbon monoxide alarm in each room with a solid fuel appliance.

We were expecting an update, and it’s here...

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations come into force on 1^st October 2022

What are the changes?

1. All Landlords must ensure a carbon monoxide alarm is equipped in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers)

2. Whilst tenants remain responsible for changing the batteries during their tenancy, Landlords must ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are repaired or replaced once informed and found that they are faulty (or if tenants are unable to replace the batteries themselves).

3. All smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested and working on the first day of the tenancy – this is the responsibility of the Landlord.

Does the regulations apply to ALL tenancies?

Yes, the regulations apply to all new AND existing tenancies.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Any landlord found to be in breach could be fined up to £5,000.

Our advice:

A. Ensure your properties are compliant

B. Keep accurate records and evidence

C. Ensure periodic inspections are carried out, when alarms can be tested

A copy of the full guidance can be found here:

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022: guidance for landlords and tenants - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)