Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Rules for Landlords
Alarm compliance is about placement and working condition, not merely owning a device. The national England rules set minimum smoke and carbon monoxide requirements, while HMOs and local licence conditions can add more.
Smoke alarms on every relevant storey
Provide at least one smoke alarm on each storey used as living accommodation. The rules do not prescribe one universal alarm type or exact mounting position, but landlords should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and relevant fire-safety guidance.
A hallway or landing may form part of the living accommodation for this purpose. Consider the property layout and any stronger requirement imposed by a licence or fire-risk assessment.
Carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with fixed combustion appliances
Provide a carbon monoxide alarm in every room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance. Gas cookers are excluded from this specific requirement, though a risk-based decision may still support an alarm.
Examples of fixed combustion appliances include boilers, fires and wood-burning stoves. Follow placement instructions so the alarm can work effectively.
Test at the start and respond to faults
Make sure required alarms are in proper working order on the day a new tenancy begins. Record the test as part of check-in so there is clear evidence.
During the tenancy, tenants should test alarms and report problems. Once told that an alarm may be faulty, investigate and repair or replace it as soon as reasonably practicable if it is not working.
Check extra property rules
These are national minimums. HMOs can have additional fire-safety duties, and a council licence can impose conditions on alarm type, interlinking or coverage.
Do not wait for an annual certificate date: alarms are an ongoing safety obligation. Keep installation, test and repair notes per property.
Frequently asked questions
At least one is required on each storey used as living accommodation.
The national rule applies to rooms used as living accommodation containing a fixed combustion appliance, except a gas cooker.
Official sources
Further reading
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This guide is general information, not legal advice. We review time-sensitive claims against official sources; see our editorial policy. Always check GOV.UK or a professional for your situation.