Carbon monoxide alarms in rented homes
Landlords in England must provide carbon monoxide alarms in certain rooms. Here is the rule in plain English and how we can help.
What the rules require
Under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations, as amended in 2022, a landlord of a privately rented home must provide:
- A smoke alarm on every storey with living accommodation
- A carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation that has a fixed combustion appliance, such as a gas boiler, a gas fire or a solid-fuel stove. Gas cookers are an exception
- Checks that each alarm works on the first day of every new tenancy
After that, the landlord must repair or replace an alarm once told it is faulty. Councils can issue a civil penalty for failing to comply. Check the latest GOV.UK guidance for your property.
Choosing an alarm
Look for an alarm marked to BS EN 50291 and follow the maker’s instructions on where to fit it. Alarms have a limited life, so note the replacement date printed on the unit.
An alarm does not replace the annual check
A carbon monoxide alarm is a warning device. It does not replace the yearly gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer. See the landlord gas safety checklist.
If an alarm sounds
Open doors and windows, turn off the appliances, leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. Seek medical help if anyone feels unwell, with symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea or drowsiness.
We can fit one
We can fit a carbon monoxide alarm at your gas safety visit. Say so when you book, and we confirm the price before the visit. See landlord gas safety checks.
This is general information, not legal advice. For your own tenancy, ask a solicitor or a landlord association.
Book your check
Book a landlord gas safety check online, or call free on 0800 118 2128. A CP12 record is £92.50 for up to two appliances and £22.50 for each additional appliance; gas fires are charged separately. See the landlord gas safety check page.
Common questions
Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm for a gas cooker?
The rules treat gas cookers as an exception. An alarm is still sensible in a kitchen with any fuel-burning appliance.
Does an alarm mean I can skip the gas safety check?
No. The annual check by a Gas Safe registered engineer is a separate legal duty.