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Smoke alarms

Does anyone know who is responsible for smoke alarms in a private let. There's one (old) battery operated detector on the landing and that's it. Are there any guidelines (laws) as to how many there should be in a private let?

Like in social housing I know there are three detectors wired into the mains.

Comments

  • Werdnal
    Werdnal Posts: 3,780 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture Combo Breaker
    edited 17 September 2013 at 9:56PM
    Unless the property is an HMO, or built after a certain date (not sure when but recent years), there is no obligation to have any smoke alarms at all.

    For the cost of them, get one in the supermarket and take with you when you leave ... what price a life!

    PS, if you have gas appliances, a CO detector is also a wise investment.
  • gayleanne
    gayleanne Posts: 330 Forumite
    edited 17 September 2013 at 10:28PM
    Battery operated smoke alarms are so cheap, compared to what they used to be, that I wouldn't even think about deciding who is responsible for providing them, I would be out and making sure that I have enough alarms and batteries to protect my family, by buying and fitting them myself.

    Also as Werdnal has written a CO detector is just as important in fact even more important than a smoke detector.
  • hazyjo
    hazyjo Posts: 15,475 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Above = England. If it's Scotland, I think it's the LL's responsibility to provide it/them. As above, is it really worth quibbling over? I'd just buy one.

    Jx
    2024 wins: *must start comping again!*
  • The Fire Service carry out free home fire risk assessments and will provide and install smoke alarms if they are needed, often at no cost. Contact your local fire and rescue service. Or google free home fire safety check.
  • Werdnal wrote: »
    Unless the property is an HMO, or built after a certain date (not sure when but recent years), there is no obligation to have any smoke alarms at all.

    For the cost of them, get one in the supermarket and take with you when you leave ... what price a life!

    PS, if you have gas appliances, a CO detector is also a wise investment.

    I have invested in 'travel' smoke alarm and CO detectors which I take on all overnight stays. Can't be too careful.
  • Mallotum_X
    Mallotum_X Posts: 2,591 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture Combo Breaker
    They cost from a fiver. Just get a couple and put them up, replace the old one too.
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