Alongside the EICR, landlords must provide working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. The rules were strengthened in 2022 — here’s what applies now.
What the regulations require
Under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations (amended in 2022), landlords must:
- Fit at least one smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation.
- Fit a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (such as a boiler, wood burner or gas fire — gas cookers are excluded).
- Make sure alarms are working at the start of each new tenancy.
- Repair or replace alarms once informed by a tenant that they’re faulty.
The 2022 changes extended CO alarm requirements and applied the rules to social housing as well as private lets.
Mains or battery?
Both are permitted, but interlinked mains alarms with battery backup are more reliable and are increasingly expected — and often required in HMOs. We can supply and fit them alongside your EICR.
Testing
Tenants should test alarms regularly, but you’re responsible for having them working at the start of the tenancy and fixing faults when reported. Add alarms to your landlord package and get it all done in one visit.
Common questions
At least one smoke alarm on every storey of the property used as living accommodation. HMOs and larger properties often need interlinked systems.
Yes — a CO alarm is required in any room with a fixed combustion appliance such as a boiler, wood burner or gas fire. Gas cookers are excluded. This was extended in 2022.
Both battery and mains alarms are permitted, but interlinked mains alarms with battery backup are more reliable and are often expected, particularly in HMOs.
Need alarms fitted?
Smoke and CO alarms supplied, fitted and certified — bundle them with your EICR.
Call 020 7473 7807