Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in rented properties

Why private sector landlords must install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and where to find the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations.

From October 2015 the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 requires all specified tenancies, including private sector landlords, to:

  • install a smoke alarm on every floor of their property
  • install a carbon monoxide alarm in their properties which use or burn solid fuels
  • check that alarms are working at the start of every new tenancy

Local councils could fine private sector landlords up to £5,000 if they fail to meet the new regulations.

Read The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015.

Landlords excluded from the regulations

Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and properties owned by registered social landlords amongst others are excluded.  

HMOs and hostels are already covered by other legislation. Specific guidance already exists to assist these landlords in working out the appropriate standard of fire detection and alarm they need.