Staying compliant as a Landlord is vital. At Belvoir Lettings Agents Northwich, we understand that the safety of your tenants or loved ones is also a top priority. With National CO Awareness Month upon us, it’s the perfect time to shed light on this critical topic and highlight one of the most overlooked yet critical safety measures- the installation of a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that poses a significant risk to life if undetected.
Shockingly, fewer than half of UK homes have a CO alarm installed, according to the National Library of Medicine. This blog will help you understand why every home needs a CO alarm, how to recognize CO poisoning symptoms, and the legal obligations landlords must meet.
What Makes Carbon Monoxide So Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel burns incompletely, often in gas boilers, gas fires, wood-burning stoves, or other solid fuel appliances. Because it is undetectable to human senses, the only way to know if CO is present is with a reliable carbon monoxide alarm.
Exposure to CO can cause serious health problems and even death. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble those of common illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose without an alarm. Look out for these warning signs:
- Difficulty breathing
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Stomach pain
If you notice these symptoms, evacuate the building immediately, move to fresh air, and call emergency services.
Why a CO Alarm Is Essential
A carbon monoxide alarm is the only effective way to detect and protect against CO exposure. These alarms are widely available, affordable (starting at under £20), and easy to install.
When choosing a CO alarm, ensure it has a label of a recognized testing laboratory. These certifications guarantee the product’s reliability and effectiveness.
Position your CO alarm at head height on a wall, away from windows, doors, and heat sources, and test it regularly to ensure it’s functioning correctly. The NFPA ( National Fire Protection Agency) advise they be securely fitted in a central location outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home. For the best protection they can be interlinked so when one sounds they all sound.
Landlord Responsibilities Under New Legislation
If you’re a landlord, recent legislation enacted in October 2022 requires you to take additional steps to ensure tenant safety. The law mandates the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in rental properties, specifically in rooms with:
- Gas boilers
- Gas fires
- Solid fuel-burning appliances (e.g., wood-burning stoves, coal fires)
While gas cookers and hobs are not legally included, we strongly recommend installing alarms in these areas for added safety.
What happens if you fail to comply?
Landlords who do not adhere to these regulations risk fines of up to £5,000. Moreover, if a tenant reports a faulty CO alarm, landlords must repair or replace it promptly to avoid legal and financial repercussions.
Protect Your Home and Family
For homeowners, the responsibility is equally important. CO alarms safeguard your family from the risks posed by malfunctioning boilers, solid fuel appliances, and other potential CO sources.
By installing and regularly testing a CO alarm, you can ensure peace of mind for everyone in your household.
Steps to Protect Your Property
- Install Certified CO Alarms: Look for the British Standard EN 50291 certification and place alarms in all high-risk rooms.
- Perform Regular Maintenance: Test alarms monthly, replace batteries as needed, and ensure appliances are serviced annually by qualified engineers.
- Educate Occupants: Ensure tenants or family members understand how to identify CO poisoning symptoms and what to do in an emergency.
Belvoir Lettings Agents Northwich: Supporting Landlords with Compliance
As a landlord, staying compliant with safety regulations is essential to protect your tenants and avoid hefty fines. At Belvoir Lettings Agents Northwich, we can help you navigate the latest legislation, ensuring your properties are fully compliant and equipped with carbon monoxide alarms.
Don’t take risks with safety. Whether you’re a landlord or a homeowner, a CO alarm is a small investment that could save lives. For professional advice and support with your rental property, contact Belvoir Lettings Agents Northwich today.
Let’s make your property a safer place to live.
Contact Belvoir Lettings Agents Northwich
📞 Call 01606 783599
📧 Email: northwich@belvoirlettings.com
Stay safe, stay compliant — because peace of mind is priceless.
