What are the Current Rules for Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Rentals?

There has been coverage in the media recently about proposals to update the current regulations surrounding CO2 alarms in rented properties.

Currently, landlords are required to ensure CO2 alarms are installed in rooms where there is a fixed solid fuel burning appliance, for example a log burning stove. Thankfully most landlords are aware of this law and meet their legal obligations.

As part of the proposed amendments, the law is to be extended to ensure CO2 alarms are mandatory in rooms with a fixed combustion appliance including a gas boiler (but excluding gas cookers) in both private and social rented homes. They will also be mandatory upon installation of any heating appliance (excluding has cookers) in all tenures through building regulations.

Landlords will also be expected to repair or replace alarms once they are informed they are faulty.

Currently the proposed changes are going through Parliament but it is widely expected they will be introduced soon and with no grace period.

According to the government, round 20 people die every year from CO2 poisoning, with more than 4000 people going to hospital due to carbon monoxide issues.

It goes without saying that it is essential CO2 alarms, and of course smoke alarms, are regularly tested including by the tenants. Whenever we carry out an inventory, as standard we test the alarms present for power by doing a push button test and LED light check. This is not of course confirmation the alarm will work in a real incident, so regular testing and monitoring should take place.