Carbon monoxide alarm placement and testing
Landlords in England must fit a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation containing a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers.
4 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Landlords in England must fit a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation containing a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers.
Where alarms are required
Rooms with a solid fuel appliance, wood burner or gas fire used as living accommodation.
Correct placement
Roughly at head height when seated, one to three metres from the appliance, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Testing obligations
Alarms must be in working order at the start of each new tenancy; test at each visit and encourage tenants to test monthly.
Replacing alarms
Most alarms have a 5 to 10 year sensor life; replace on the date shown on the unit rather than waiting for a failure.
Frequently asked questions
Where must carbon monoxide alarms be fitted?
In any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers.
Who tests the alarms?
The landlord must ensure alarms are working on the first day of a new tenancy; tenants are expected to test them periodically after that and report faults.
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This guide is 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.