Carbon Monoxide alarms: new regulations and landlord obligations.

The Government have announced today (24 November 2021) that Carbon Monoxide Alarms will have to be installed into each private rented property which benefits from a gas boiler or fire, amending the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 and the statutory guidance (Approved Document J) supporting Part J of the Building Regulations. Landlords should act now to ensure that they comply with the new regulations.

Previously, the presence of a Carbon Monoxide alarm was only a legal requirement where there was an open-flame fire or stove, but this will now be expanded to all rented properties with common gas boilers and fires.

Junior Housing Minister Eddie Hughes said "It is fundamentally right for people to feel safe in their own homes – an issue I’ve advocated for many years.

"Around 20 people are killed each year in accidental carbon monoxide poisonings, and many more through house fires – but we know that simple interventions can stop these needless deaths.

"I'm proud that the new rules being proposed will ensure even more homes are fitted with life-saving alarms. Whether you own your home, are privately renting or in social housing – everyone deserves to feel safe and this is an incredibly important step in protecting those at risk."

The directive has advised that it is up to the property owner to provide working Carbon Monoxide alarms, and these should be tested and operational at the start of every tenancy and tested regularly during the tenancy.

Through our partners, HeatWave Gas and Plumbing, we can provide landlords with a Carbon Monoxide alarm with a 10 year battery-life, that is tamper-proof, and with a 10-year, "no quibble" warranty for just £50.00 inc VAT (supplied and installed).

If you require us to do this or if you have any questions about the new regulations, contact our Property Management team on 0161 511 5339 or complete our contact form.