Wed, 17 Aug 2022 | Legistlation
As part of the bid to make rented properties safer in England, changes have been made to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015.
Coming into force from the 1st October 2022, the new rules state that all rented properties in England must have a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms wholly or partially used as living accommodation where there is a fixed combustion appliance. This includes gas heaters and boilers but does not extend to gas cookers.
Before this amendment, carbon monoxide alarms were only required in rooms where there were solid fuel combustion appliances, such as wood burners.
What does this mean for landlords?
In light of this new legislation, landlords must provide carbon monoxide alarms in every room where there is a fixed combustion appliance before 1st October 2022. If alarms are not fitted in required rooms before this date, landlords could risk a £5,000 fine.
The amended rules also include a new requirement for landlords and letting agents to repair or replace any alarm reported to not be in proper working order by the tenant. This must be done as soon as reasonably practicable.
If you are unsure about whether you need to fit a carbon monoxide alarm in your property, do ask your property manager. They will be able to give you the appropriate guidance and organise the alarm(s) to be fitted in your rental property in good time.
What does this mean for tenants?
Tenants should contact their letting agent or landlord as soon as possible if they do not have a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms where there is a fixed combustion appliance or if their carbon monoxide alarm is not in good working order. If you are a Prospect tenant, be sure to contact your property manager if you believe your alarm to be faulty or you do not have an alarm where you think you should have.
Here at Prospect, we are committed to keeping you updated on all the latest lettings legislation. As a Prospect landlord or tenant, you can rest assured that your designated property manager will always give guidance based on the most recent regulations in the industry. If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our award-winning property management team by clicking here.
Find out more about the amendment to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015 here/