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2022 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations
-What You Need To Know-
Calling all installers, landlords, and tenants - the rules and regulations regarding smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have just been updated, and it’s important to be aware of the changes in order to ensure properties comply with regulations.
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 has replaced the previous regulation, last updated in 2015.
From October 1st 2022, the following amendments have come into effect:
- A carbon monoxide alarm (CO) must be installed in any room used as living accommodation, which contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers)
- There must be at least one smoke alarm installed on each storey of your home with a room used for living accommodation
- Carbon monoxide alarms and smoke alarms must be repaired or replaced as soon as they are identified as faulty
Local authorities enforce these amendments, and a fine of up to £5,000 can be issued to landlords who don’t comply.
Which Carbon Monoxide Alarm is Best?
The regulations do not stipulate the type of CO alarm required - as long as they are fully compliant with British Standards BS 50291.
This means both hard wired and battery powered CO alarms can be used in order to ensure rooms comply with regulations.
Click here for our full range of BS 50291 compliant carbon monoxide alarms.
Where Should Carbon Monoxide Alarms be Installed?
The regulations state that carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in every room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
Whilst there is no requirements for the exact positioning of a CO alarm, there are some best practices to keep in mind.
If placed on the wall, CO alarms should be secured at least 15cm away from the ceiling, and between 1m and 3m away from the possible source in the room - such as the boiler or cooker.
If placed on the ceiling, place CO alarms at least 30cm away from walls or obstructions such as light fittings.
What is a Fixed Combustion Appliance?
A ‘fixed combustion appliance’ is an apparatus that burns fuel to generate heat for water heating, space heating, cooking, or a similar purpose.
This includes boilers, water heaters, fires, stoves, warm air heaters, and cookers.
Therefore, any room used as living accommodation with one or more of these appliances now requires a functional CO alarm.
Who is Responsible for Changing CO Alarm Batteries?
Landlords take responsibility for repairing or replacing any faulty or damaged alarms.
They are also responsible for ensuring tenants can replace alarm batteries, or replacing the batteries themselves if tenants are unable to do so.
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