With effect from the 1st October 2015, there will be new UK Fire Safety Legislation for Landlords. The new regulations will make it compulsory for all landlords to fit smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in rented properties.
This legislation will mean that a smoke alarm must be fitted on each floor of the premises. For properties with a solid burning appliance there will be a requirement to fit a carbon monoxide detector.
It will be the responsibility of landlords to check that these alarms are fitted and working at the commencement of each tenancy. If they choose to disobey this new legislation and fail to comply, they will face the possibility of a penalty of up to £5,000.
It’s not all one way traffic though. Tenants will also be given some responsibility too. There will be a requirement for tenants to test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on a weekly basis. Any faults must be reported to the landlord or agency.
It has been reported that people are at least four times more likely to die in a house fire if no smoke alarm has been fitted. Our hope is that this new legislation will make homes significantly safer for tenants.
