Smoke and Fire Awareness in Properties

When it comes to fire safety in our homes, we cannot simply assume that our alarms will take care of us if we do not take care of them. Regular testing of smoke alarms is not something that many of us even think about, yet our lives depend on these devices for our safety. It is therefore important to know your responsibilities.be able to take them to court.

What are the legal responsibilities of landlords and property managers?

The responsibility of smoke alarms is shared between the landlord and the tenant; however, it is the landlord that can face a fine of up to £5,000 from the local authorities if they fail to comply with their legal requirements.

As of 1^st October 2015, the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 came into force, to ensure that landlords of the private sector adhere to legislation, a few key points being:

• To install at least one smoke alarm on each storey of the premises.
• To install a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
• Ensure there is an alarm within 7.5 metres of the door to every habitable room.
• The landlord must make sure the alarms are in working order at the start of each new tenancy and immediately replaced or repaired once informed they are faulty.

What type of smoke alarm do I need to install?

• It is not legally specified whether a mains or battery alarm must be installed, but this depends on your needs, your budget, and the layout of the property, however, all new-build homes in the UK require a mains-powered smoke alarm that are interlinked between floors.
• Mains-powered alarms offer more protection than battery alarms but require an electrician to install them. These are better for larger homes with multiple levels. These alarms have a back-up battery.
• Battery alarms are easy to install, without the need of an electrician. The batteries, however, do need regular replacement. Sealed battery alarms are a better option than those with replaceable batteries. Lithium batteries last about ten years, while alkaline batteries last around one year.
• Interlinked alarms will all sound if one detects fire. Some battery alarms can be interlinked. This is ideal for larger homes with multiple floors.
• Mains powered alarms with back-up battery, which are interlinked are the superior, reliable option to ensure safety, but providing you install a smoke alarm that is fit for purpose and in perfect working order, this is satisfactory to fulfil legal your obligation as a property owner.

At the start of the tenancy the landlord must ensure that a smoke alarm would have been installed and tested, as per noted on the Check In / Inventory / Schedule of Condition, which will also have the locations throughout the property. The expiry date of the alarms will be checked by the managing agent and recorded.

What are the responsibilities of a tenant?

During tenancy, a smoke alarm needs regular maintenance:

Once a week – check the alarm by pressing the test button.

Once a month – vacuum and wipe the smoke alarm casing.

Ensure dust is not blocking the sensor chamber.

If the smoke alarm is making an intermittent bleeping /chirping noise, the tenant must follow these steps:

1. Check that the smoke alarm is the source of the bleeping/chirping; make sure the noise is not coming from another alarm (smoke/carbon monoxide/gas/burglar alarm) by process of elimination.
2. Clean the alarm by vacuuming and wiping the casing.
3. Test the alarm by pressing the ‘Test’ button.
4. Change the battery (unless it is a ten-year alarm, or is mains powered).
5. Check that you always have clear access to escape routes.

What if my tenant is not maintaining or looking after the smoke alarms?

The Importance in smoke alarm care and regular testing during tenancy could save lives. Unfortunately, some tenants do not test or maintain the smoke alarms in their properties on a routine basis, and more surprisingly, some do not feel it their responsibility, so the managing agent will need to ensure they physically test the alarms and check expiry dates during their midterm visit and advise the tenant on the importance of maintaining them. All information must be recorded.

How Proptech can help

KPR software makes this process easy with set checklists covering all the information required to ensure property managers and landlords’ FFHH obligations are covered on their properties, which is invaluable, as nothing is missed.

At KPR we understand the ever-changing demands of the industry and strive to address the issues agents and property owners face.

We have our own in-house development team with knowledge on modem technology and methodologies, which keep KPR software current, and always focusing on the next level.

If you would like to speak with us about how we can assist you and your business, feel free to speak with our helpful team today!

0208 542 2333

hello@kpr.global