From that date, all residential landlords must:

1. Ensure at least one smoke alarm is equipped on each storey of their homes where there is a room used as living accommodation. This has been a legal requirement in the private rented sector since 2015.

2. Ensure a carbon monoxide alarm is equipped in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (previously this requirement was only for solid fuel burning appliances).

3. Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are repaired or replaced once informed and found that they are faulty.

The requirements are enforced by local authorities who can impose a fine of up to £5,000 where a landlord fails to comply with a remedial notice.

The full regulations can be found at Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2022 and should also be read in conjunction with other relevant laws regarding fire and carbon monoxide safety in the home – ie.  Housing Act 2004, the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act 2022.

It is a landlord’s responsibility to ensure that they are applying the relevant laws correctly and if you are unclear whether or how the requirements apply in your individual circumstances you should seek legal advice.