Landlord guidance
Smoke and Heat Alarm Requirements for Landlords
Landlords in England must provide working smoke alarms on each storey and heat alarms/carbon monoxide alarms where required, and ensure they work at the start of a tenancy.
Alongside the fixed installation, landlords must provide working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. These are a separate legal duty from the EICR but part of the same overall safety picture.
The requirements (England)
- At least one smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation.
- A carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
- Alarms must be in working order at the start of each new tenancy.
Heat alarms and interlinked systems
In kitchens, a heat alarm is often more appropriate than a smoke alarm to avoid false alarms from cooking. In HMOs and larger properties, an interlinked, mains-powered system (with battery backup) is commonly required — overlapping with fire detection duties.
Mains-powered alarms and the electrician
Where alarms are hard-wired into the installation, their supply and interlinking form part of the electrical works and should be installed and tested by a competent person, and reflected in the property's records.
Keeping on top of it
Test alarms at the start of tenancies, encourage tenants to test regularly, and replace units at end of life. Combined with the EICR, working alarms are a cornerstone of a safe rented home.
Frequently asked questions
How many smoke alarms does a rented property need?
In England, landlords must provide at least one smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation, and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). Alarms must be working at the start of each new tenancy.
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Learn moreThis article provides general guidance and distinguishes legislation, British Standards and good practice. It is not legal advice. Always confirm the specific duties applying to your property and tenure.