What are the smoke and carbon monoxide alarm rules?
One smoke alarm per storey, CO alarms with fixed combustion appliances, tested on day one.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 require a smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation, and a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a fixed combustion appliance other than a gas cooker. Scotland goes further, requiring interlinked alarms.
Practical guidance
- Test every alarm on the first day of a new tenancy and record the test.
- Repair or replace faulty alarms as soon as a tenant reports them.
- In Scotland, standalone alarms are not enough — they must be interlinked.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.