The rules will apply to new tenancies from 1 September 2024 and all other private tenancies from 1 December 2024.
Where and how many?
A property must have a minimum of one:
- heat alarm in every kitchen
- smoke alarm in the main living area (usually the living room or lounge) and circulation space
- carbon monoxide alarm in each room or circulation space that has a gas appliance other than a gas cooker (for example a gas fire or a boiler)
If a smoke alarm is more than 7.5 metres from any point in the room then another alarm must be installed.
Responsibilities
At the start of any tenancy, the letting agent or landlord must confirm that the tenant is satisfied all alarms are in working order. There must be a record of when alarms are installed or replaced, and a copy should be given to the tenant.
Tenants must be advised they need to test the alarms once per week and report any faults as soon as possible. Once a fault is reported, or when an alarm is due to be replaced, the letting agent or landlord must take remedial action.
Enforcement
Failure to comply with the regulations is an offence and negligent landlords or agents could face legal proceedings. Fines could be as much as £2,500.
Propertymark welcomes the introduction of mandatory smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in private rented property in Northern Ireland. These measures will improve the safety of tenants and help professionalise the sector.
We have long called for these reforms, and it is pleasing to see a lead in time for letting agents and their landlords to comply. We encourage agents to understand the changes and get ahead by installing and checking alarms before the new Regulations come fully into force later in the year.
