Ensuring the correct fire and carbon monoxide alarm systems are in place – and working – is a non-negotiable part of providing safe, compliant housing. For housing providers, local authorities and M&E contractors, it’s about more than ticking a box. It’s about protecting lives, staying aligned with legislation, and delivering peace of mind for tenants.
That begins with selecting the right type of alarm for the right location, and ends with proper installation, maintenance and record-keeping.
Current Regulations: What Landlords Must Do
Since the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022, the rules are clear:
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At least one smoke alarm must be installed on every storey of a property where there’s a room used as living accommodation.
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Carbon monoxide alarms must be fitted in every room that has a fixed combustion appliance (gas cookers excluded).
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Repairs or replacements must be made when a fault is reported.
Landlords who don’t comply risk a fine of up to £5,000, enforceable by the local authority.
On top of this, BS 5839-6 remains the gold standard for fire detection and alarm systems in domestic properties. It gives housing providers a best-practice framework – and we strongly recommend using it as your baseline.
Choosing the Right Alarm
Not all alarms are created equal. Before you buy, check for compliance with British Standards:
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Smoke alarms: BS 5446-1:2000 (for self-contained units)
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Fire alarm systems: BS 5839-1:2013
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CO alarms: EN 50291-1 and installation guidance from EN 50292
Look out for official approvals such as the Kitemark or CE mark. Alarms can be battery-powered, mains-powered, or both – with backup batteries in case of power failure. Some systems can be interlinked either by wiring or wireless RF (radio frequency), which is especially helpful in larger properties.
Types of Alarms and Where to Install Them
Let’s break it down. There are three main types of fire detection alarm:
1. Optical Smoke Alarms
Ideal for detecting larger smoke particles from slow-burning fires – think smouldering upholstery or overheated wiring.
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Avoid: Directly outside steamy bathrooms – they’re prone to false alarms.
2. Multi-Sensor Alarms
These combine heat and optical sensors, making them more responsive across a wider range of fires – whether fast-flaming or slow to start. They’re also less likely to false alarm from steam or dust, which is why many UK Fire & Rescue Services now recommend them as the go-to.
Best for: Most rooms, except kitchens.
Note: Multi-sensor units simplify compliance – just one device for multiple scenarios.
3. Heat Alarms
These don’t react to smoke but detect a rise in temperature, which makes them ideal for rooms with high moisture or dust levels.
Best for: Kitchens, garages, boiler rooms and lofts.
Worth noting: ionisation alarms are no longer recommended under NFCC guidance (as of 2018), due to their higher likelihood of false alarms and slower response to smouldering fires.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: Getting It Right
CO is a silent, invisible threat. That’s why every room with a fuel-burning appliance must have a CO alarm installed within 1–3 metres of the source.
Positioning tips:
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300mm from walls or light fittings (to avoid ‘dead air’ spots)
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If the appliance is in a cupboard or boiler room – mount the alarm just outside the room
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If there’s no appliance in a room (e.g. bedrooms), place the alarm at breathing height, such as near the bed
Avoid placing CO alarms:
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In enclosed spaces
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Next to extractor fans, vents or open windows
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Directly above sinks
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In areas below –5°C or above 40°C
Best Practice for Alarm Positioning
Based on BS 5839-6:2019, here’s what we recommend:
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Ceiling-mounted alarms, centrally located in the room
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At least 300mm from walls or light fittings
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Within 3 metres of every bedroom and exit door
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Between high-risk rooms (like kitchens) and sleeping areas
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For sloped ceilings: no more than 600mm down from the apex for smoke alarms, or 150mm for heat alarms
Room-by-room summary:
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Smoke: Bedrooms, hallways, sitting rooms
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Heat: Kitchen, garage, loft
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CO: Rooms with fuel-burning appliances, bedrooms
Ongoing Maintenance: Who’s Responsible?
Correct installation is step one. But what happens next?
Under BS 5839-6, the frequency and type of testing depend on the alarm system grade. For example:
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A Grade A system (with control panel) should have at least one detector tested weekly
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Alarms should be gently cleaned monthly with a vacuum and soft brush
Tenants play a role too. Most housing associations include alarm testing guidance in their tenant welcome packs. But in reality, checks often only happen once a year during routine gas or electrical servicing.
Make It Easy – and Safer
Choosing a robust, user-friendly fire safety system isn’t just smart – it’s a kindness to tenants. At RJ Wilson, we often recommend the FireAngel Specification range. These alarms are:
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Mains-powered with sealed-for-life battery backups
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Interlinkable via wireless technology
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Designed for vulnerable tenants – with optional alarm control units, meaning no need to climb ladders or press awkward ceiling buttons
With remote testing and system health monitoring from a central unit, landlords can stay compliant and proactive – without relying on tenants to report issues.
Curious about fire alarm installation for your company?
Explore our practical guide to fire alarm installation, packed with insights on specifying and installing systems in line with BS 5839-6 and 2022 legislation.
