The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations are expected to come into force on 1 October leaving residential landlords just two weeks to ensure that they are prepared.
Residential landlords in the private rented sector in England (not Wales) will need to ensure:
1. That a smoke alarm is installed on each storey of the property that is used as living accommodation;
2. That a carbon monoxide alarm is installed in any room that is used as living accommodation and contains a solid fuel burning combustion appliance; and
3. That all alarms are in proper working order.
The requirements should only apply to residential tenancies granted on or after 1 October 2015 (but will not apply to periodic tenancies which come into effect after the expiry of an existing AST).
There are some exemptions (including tenants who share accommodation with their landlord, long leases and student halls of residence) but most landlords whose tenants occupy under standard ASTs need to be aware of and implement the changes. Failure to comply could result in a fine of up to £5,000 so this is not something that landlords should be taking lightly.
From the 1st October 2015 regulations require both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to be installed in rented residential accommodation. Changes are also made to the licence requirements in relation to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), such as shared houses and bedsits which require a licence and also in relation to properties which are subject to selective licensing. The Regulations apply both to houses and flats. Failure to comply can lead to a civil penalty being imposed of up to £5,000.
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