CO requirements in privately rented properties in NI

The Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024, came into effect on 30 May 2024.

Technicians working for private landlords, or those who might be landlords, should familiarise themselves with the legislation. A summary is below:

• A smoke alarm must be installed in the main living room and every circulation space on each floor (hallway, landing). Exceptions apply where an open fireplace makes a smoke alarm impractical, in which case a heat alarm may be used. In open plan living areas, a heat alarm in the kitchen can suffice if within 7.5 meters of any point in the room. A heat alarm is required in every kitchen.
• A carbon monoxide alarm must be installed in any room or circulation space containing a fixed combustion appliance or flue, including any bedrooms a flue passes through.
• Smoke and heat alarms must be interconnected to ensure communication; if one alarm is triggered, all interconnected alarms will sound. Installed alarms may either be hard wired, battery sealed or a combination of both.
• Multiple carbon monoxide alarms do not need to be linked with smoke and heat alarms.

The dates for compliance are as follows:

• New tenancies granted on or after 1st September 2024, must comply immediately upon granting.
• Existing tenancies granted before 1st September 2024, must comply by 1st December 2024.

Further guidance on the regulations can be found on the Department of Communities website, scan the QR code above left.

The Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 can also be viewed by scanning the QR code above right.

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