Legislation Update: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
by Patrick Garratt - 22nd February 2016
Any tenancies which started on or after the 1st October 2015 have been subject to new regulations regarding smoke / carbon monoxide detectors.
Landlords are now required to have one smoke detector installed on every floor of a rented property and to test that they are working on the 1st day of the tenancy. Tenants will then be responsible for testing the detectors during the tenancy.
There are no specifications within the legislation to advise what type of smoke detectors are required; so non-linked battery operated detectors would satisfy the regulations (as long as the property is not a licensable HMO). We do however recommend an interlinked mains powered smoke detector system as best practice and to give you and your tenants piece of mind.
Contrary to much speculation before the final government announcements, carbon monoxide detectors are only required in ‘high risk rooms’ such as where solid fuels are burned. The legislation does NOT require carbon monoxide detectors to be installed in rooms with gas boilers or gas fires, we do however recommend this as best practice.
We will of course make sure that properties managed by Purple Frog are compliant with this legislation and that the smoke detectors are tested as required.
If you would like to see more information about this legislation please click here.