Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2022
Residential Landlords- are you up to date? The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 came into force on 1 October 2022.
You must be aware of the legislation and – more importantly – that you are adhering to it too.
In this short blog, we talk you through all you need to know.
What Are The Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Amendment Regulations 2022?
Since 2015, most residential landlords have had to ensure that at least one smoke alarm is equipped on each storey of their homes where a room is used as living accommodation.
As of 1 October 2022, additional obligations came into force for such residential landlords.
The changes mean that any such landlords must now:
- Ensure a carbon monoxide alarm is equipped in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers) (previously, this requirement was only for solid fuel-burning appliances). A fixed combustion device is typically powered by gas, oil, coal, or wood, e.g. boilers or log burners. A non-functioning, purely decorative fireplace would not constitute a fixed combustion appliance.Generally, a room is classed as ‘living accommodation’ if it is used for the primary purposes of living or where a person spends a significant amount of time. The regulations specifically stipulate that a bathroom or lavatory would also be classed as living accommodation.
- Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are repaired or replaced once informed and found faulty.
What happens if I don’t comply?
Where a landlord is in breach, the local housing authority may serve a remedial notice. Failure to comply with each remedial notice can lead to a fine of up to £5,000.
Fines apply per breach rather than per property.
Find Out More About The Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Amendment Regulations 2022
Please get in touch with us if you are unclear about whether or how the requirements apply to your circumstances.
Our property team has experience across large areas of residential (and commercial) property, and we are well-equipped to guide you on the right course of action.
Contact our team on 01903 229999, email us via info@bennett-griffin.co.uk or by using the form below.