New smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarm laws for NI landlords

New smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarm laws for NI landlords

0:01 AM, 4th December 2024, About 14 hours ago

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All private rental properties in Northern Ireland must now comply with stricter fire safety regulations.

These new rules, implemented on December 1, aim to reduce the risk of fire-related injuries, deaths and property damage in rental properties.

The law affecting all new tenancies came into effect on 1 September, but it now covers all existing tenancies.

Smoke alarms must be fitted in the room which is used most frequently for ‘general daytime living purposes’ – and there must be one fitted in every storey’s circulation space.

Along with smoke alarms, all rented homes in Northern Ireland must now meet the requirements for heat and carbon monoxide alarms.

Installing alarms

Landlords are responsible for installing the following alarms in their rental properties:

  • Smoke alarm: One smoke alarm in the main living room and on every floor’s circulation space (halls and landings). In some cases, a heat alarm may be used instead of a smoke alarm near an open fireplace
  • Heat alarm: A heat alarm must be installed in every kitchen
  • Carbon monoxide alarm: A carbon monoxide alarm is required in any room or hallway containing a fixed combustion appliance or a flue.

Interlinked alarms

The smoke and heat alarms within a property must be interlinked.

This means if one alarm detects a fire, all alarms will sound, alerting everyone in the building of potential danger.

While interlinking carbon monoxide alarms is not mandatory, it’s highly recommended for improved safety.

Failure to comply with these new regulations can result in legal action against landlords.

Landlords who neglect to install the required alarms could face fines of up to £2,500 or a fixed penalty of £500.


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