New standards for fire and smoke alarms are being introduced in Scotland and are applicable to all residential properties.
By the 1st February next year, every home in Scotland must have:
- smoke alarms in every circulation space on each storey (such as hallways and landings),
- smoke alarms in the rooms most frequently used,
- a heat alarm in the kitchen, and
- a Carbon Monoxide alarm where there is a fuel burning appliance or flue.
The regulations allow for alarms to be either hardwired or sealed, tamper proof long-life lithium battery powered. They also specify that all heat and smoke detectors must be interlinked so that if one alarm is triggered, they all operate. You may not hear the alarm closest to the fire but, by having an interlinked system, you will be alerted immediately, making it safer and quicker to escape if necessary.
These new rules apply to both homeowners and landlords in Scotland, so whether you own your own property, let out a property, or stay within a rented property, please ensure that your fire and smoke alarms are checked and compliant with the new guidelines.
Following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in London, the Government wants to ensure that everyone in Scotland has the same level of protection, whether they own or rent their home.