Carbon Monoxide alarms to become mandatory in 2022

New regulations which have recently been drafted, state that all rooms used as living accommodation and where there is a fixed combustion appliance, such as a gas heater, gas fire or central heating boiler, must have a Carbon Monoxide alarm installed from the 1st October 2022. However, if a property only contains a gas cooker or gas hob, the installation of a Carbon Monoxide alarm will not be required under the new regulations.

These new regulations apply to all rented properties within the private rental sector and also the social housing sector in England and Wales.

The amendments are being made to "The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015", which can be found here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2022/9780348234978#f00003

Whilst we are all aware of the potential dangers and effects of Carbon Monoxide in the home, we (Lewis & Foy Lettings) welcome the new regulations as they are an inexpensive addition to any rental property, which provide constant monitoring and provide extra reassurance to landlords, letting agents and tenants alike.

Further to the requirement of a Carbon Monoxide Alarm needing to be installed in a property with the applicable fixed combustion appliance, we believe there are two other very important factors which need to be considered and implemented to ensure consistent safety and compliance. These being:

  1. Position and Placement: Importance must be given to both where the Carbon Monoxide alarm is positioned and also how it is installed. Any Carbon Monoxide alarms which are installed, should be installed in such a way which adheres to the manufacture's specific instructions and also so the alarms cannot be moved from their required locations. Most Carbon Monoxide alarms come with two screws for wall or ceiling mounting, we recommend these are used to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.
  2. Expiration and Replacement: Another important element to this regulation and requirement is the need to ensure the Carbon Monoxide alarm is within its given expiry date and to ensure a replacement is installed when the unit expires.

One last point noted from the amendments to the regulations, is for replacements and/or repairs when required. "If a Carbon Monoxide alarm is reported to require repair or replacement, this repair or replacement must be carried out by or on behalf of the landlord as soon as reasonably practical".

If you require any help or assistance with this subject matter, please do not hesitate to contact us at: office@lewisfoylettings.co.uk or 0151 438 6473