Do landlords have to provide carbon monoxide detectors - What is the law?
By Helen Everritt, Property Manager
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and it is a danger responsible landlords must take very seriously.
According to the UK Office of National Statistics, there are around 30 accidental deaths from acute CO poisoning in England and Wales every year. More than 200 people are also admitted to hospital with non-fatal poisonings.
To stop these needless deaths and minimise admissions, the Government is implementing new rules to ensure more rental properties are fitted with life‑saving carbon monoxide alarms.
To protect tenants against this hidden danger, landlords are now required to install an audible CO alarm, available for between £10 to £20 at most DIY stores on the High Street.
What is the carbon monoxide detector law in England & Wales?
From 1 October 2022, a change in UK law will mean that landlords are legally obliged to install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance. This applies to gas boilers or gas fires, but excludes gas cookers.
Landlords with properties to let in the private and social rented sector MUST abide by this mandatory change.
If any additional appliances are fitted in a property, a new carbon monoxide alarm must be fitted, unless one is already present in the room.
Previously, the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 only required private landlords to install one CO alarm in a property fitted with a solid fuel burning appliance.
Under the new 2022 regulations, landlords will be required to replace (or repair) any CO alarm that it is faulty or damaged. This must be carried out as quickly as possible after being informed by a tenant or managing agent.
Why are carbon monoxide alarms so important?
Carbon monoxide is a hidden danger. It’s odourless, colourless and tasteless.
Being exposed to high levels of CO, the gas which is produced when fuel doesn’t burn properly, can be fatal. Prolonged exposure to low CO levels can also make you unwell and potentially result in serious health problems.
Gas boilers naturally produce carbon monoxide, which is carried gas out of a property via the flue. If the boiler has been incorrectly fitted or the flue is blocked, carbon monoxide could escape into your home.
Using an audible CO alarm is the only way to detect carbon monoxide.
It’s important to place an audible carbon monoxide alarm close to the fuel‑burning appliance. Ideally, CO alarms should be placed between 1 and 3 metres away from a gas boiler or gas fire.
Non-compliant landlords could face £5,000 fine
Local authorities will be tasked with enforcing the new carbon monoxide detector law.
If a landlord fails to comply with the regulations, the local housing authority can issue a remedial notice requiring them to install and/or test the necessary CO alarms within 28 days.
Fail to comply with a remedial notice and landlords could be issued with a fine of up to £5,000.
If the landlord still fails to install the alarms, the local housing authority can arrange for them to be fitted and/or tested, as long as they have the tenant’s consent.
How we’re ensuring landlords abide by the law
As a responsible letting agent, it’s our duty to ensure that landlords understand all their compliance commitments and look after the interests of their tenants.
Every house that we let on behalf of landlords across Hull & the East Riding will be checked to ensure it abides by the new extended carbon monoxide detector regulations.
Should a CO alarm need fitting, we will immediately inform the landlord and make sure it is taken care of, and also ensure they are checked and maintained in the future to meet standards and comply with laws at all times.
Another new piece of legislation – but another worry our team can take away.
If you’re a landlord who’d like to benefit from this comprehensive management service, get in touch or call 01482 566057 to find out more.
