The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 come into force on 01 October 2022.
As a reminder to those who have not already ensured their properties are compliant the new obligations require the following:
- All rooms with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers) must contain a Carbon Monoxide alarm.
- All smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to be tested and working before a tenancy begins which complies with current Regulations.
- Landlords to repair or replace and alarm which is faulty as soon as reasonably practicable once they have been informed.
Landlords should be aware that mains operated Smoke Alarms should be replaced at least every 10 years or sooner as the manufacturer recommends. Battery operated smoke and carbon monoxide alarms may have a shorter shelf life. Some alarms have an earlier expiry date to which landlords should adhere. Landlords and their agents should also consider testing all alarms during property visits.
Oil fired appliances are not mentioned within the Regulations, but oil-fired boilers radiate noxious fumes. PainSmith recommend inserting a clause within the Terms of Business stating a landlord fits a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm if there is an oil-fired boiler as a minimum.
Falling foul of the Regulations 2022 can lead to a fine of up to £5,000. To avoid this outcome, PainSmith, would advise landlords to install and repair smoke and especially carbon monoxide alarms in their rented properties prior to 1 October 2022, the date the Regulations officially come into effect; and check them on a regular basis thereafter.
Published 23/09/2022
