New Fire and Carbon Monoxide Legislation for Landlords in Northern Ireland: What You Need to Know

Landlords, we don’t want to cause you alarm, but important changes are coming that will affect your rental properties.

With the introduction of the Private Tenancies Regulations (NI) 2024, all private rental properties in Northern Ireland must meet updated fire and carbon monoxide safety requirements. To ensure your properties comply, here’s a breakdown of the new regulations and how Fire Safety Solutions NI can help you meet them efficiently.

Key Compliance Deadlines

To avoid penalties, Landlords must ensure their properties are Fully Compliant with the Updated Regulations and British Standards by the following dates:

• 1st September 2024 for all new tenancies
• 1st December 2024 for existing tenancies

These deadlines are fast approaching, so it’s crucial to act now to safeguard your tenants and your property.

What Do the New Regulations Require?

The legislation mandates specific types of alarms and installation standards for all rental properties. Here’s what landlords need to know:

1. Alarm Type

 All smoke and heat alarms must be mains-powered and fitted with a tamper-proof battery (Grade D1).

2. Interlinked Alarms 

Smoke and heat alarms must be Interlinked, ensuring that if one alarm is triggered, all alarms sound together.

Note: Carbon monoxide alarms do not need to be interlinked, but this would be advisory.

3. Alarm Placement

• Smoke Alarms: Install at least one smoke alarm in the living room or lounge (the most commonly used room during the day) and in every circulation space on each floor, such as hallways and landings.
• Heat Alarms: A heat alarm must be installed in every kitchen.
• Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Install at least one carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a fixed combustion appliance or flue, such as a chimney, boiler, fire, or stove.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with these regulations could result in legal action and fines of up to £2,500.  Battery-operated or replaceable battery detectors do not meet the new requirements. Don’t take the risk—ensure your alarms are up to standard before the deadline.

SPECIAL OFFER

Most landlords opt to go for our:  Landlord Special Offer: 

• Smoke Alarms x3 – Aico D1 Compliant type, Mains Wired with Tamper Proof Battery
• Heat Alarm x1 – Aico D1 Compliant type, Mains Wired with Tamper Proof Battery
• 10-Year Guarantee with Smoke Alarms & 5-Year Guarantee with Heat Alarms
• Alarms are Compliant with the NI Legislation & British Standard BS839-6
• Installation by Approved & Certified Engineers with Manufacturer Training
• Built-in AudioLINK+ Data Technology giving Device Status and History Reports
• Full Report with Photos & Certificate of Compliance on Completion of Works

Supply and Fitted: Only £ 325 +vat (£390 inc vat)

(Price quoted is subject to existing wiring facilitating mains power and interlink at each device)

If additional devices, mains electrical connection or radio link modules are required your installation engineer will discuss this with you at the time of installation to get you the best possible deal.

Alternative Option

If you're unsure whether your current fire alarm system meets the new requirements, Fire Safety Solutions NI is here to assist. Why not avail of our Call Out & Certification Offer:

• We will send an engineer to your rental property
• Review the design of your existing alarms
• Inspect & date check all devices
• Functionally test your alarms Advise on upgrades (If required)
• Complete a full report with photos Provide a Certificate of Compliance#

Only £ 75 +vat (£90 inc vat)

Final Reminder for Landlords

If you own rental properties in Northern Ireland, the new Private Tenancies Regulations (NI) 2024 & Compliance with British Standard BS 5839-6 affect you. Don’t wait until its too late — get compliant now to protect your tenants, your property, and your peace of mind.

Get Started Now

Contact us to arrange an inspection of your current alarms. Let Fire Safety Solutions NI Ltd ensure your property is fully compliant and safe for your tenants.