Simple alarm check could save lives – Propertymark

An industry body is urging landlords and tenants to test their carbon monoxide alarms to save lives.

Ahead of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week next week, Propertymark has created a checklist to help households stay safe and compliant.

Known as the “silent killer” due to having no smell, taste, or colour, even a small amount of carbon monoxide can be fatal, with hundreds of people in the UK admitted to hospital each year with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide can strike without warning

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, said: “Carbon monoxide can strike without warning, and it doesn’t matter whether you own your home or rent it; everyone needs to take this seriously. A working alarm costs less than a takeaway meal but could save your life.

“A few quick checks can save lives. We’re urging everyone to take five minutes during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week to test their alarm, ensure your appliances are being serviced, and remind loved ones to do the same. Safety at home starts with awareness.”

The industry body says carbon monoxide can come from faulty boilers, cookers or blocked chimneys.

the first signs are often headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or breathlessness, symptoms that can easily be mistaken for flu or tiredness.

If you suspect CO poisoning, turn off all appliances, get fresh air immediately, and call 999.

Safety checklist

Propertymark has created a safety tip checklist for tenants and landlords to use. These include:

1. Test your carbon monoxide alarm

• Press the test button once a month to make sure it’s working.
• Replace the batteries when needed, or upgrade to a mains-powered model with a backup battery.
• Every home with a fuel-burning appliance should have a CO alarm in that room.

2. Know where to fit it

• Place the alarm at head height, around one to three metres from the appliance.
• Avoid corners, cupboards, or directly above sources of steam.

3. Get your appliances serviced annually

• Arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to check boilers, fires, and cookers each year.
• Ask to see the engineer’s ID and record the service date.

4. Never block air vents or flues

• Good ventilation prevents dangerous gas build-up.
• If you spot soot stains, yellow flames, or your pilot light keeps blowing out, call for a safety inspection immediately.

Tenants must also play their part

The industry body says landlords are legally required to install carbon monoxide alarms in every room with a fixed fuel-burning appliance (such as a gas boiler, fire, or wood burner). They must also check that these alarms are working properly at the start of each new tenancy.

Landlords must also provide confirmation that all alarms have been tested before move-in, arrange annual gas safety inspections, and supply tenants with a valid Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) within 28 days of the check.

However, tenants must also play their part by testing alarms regularly, keeping ventilation clear, and reporting any faults or safety concerns immediately.

What responsible landlords should know

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week is an opportunity to review the safety checks that protect tenants and properties alike.

A working carbon monoxide alarm is not only a legal requirement in many rented homes but also one of the simplest safeguards against serious harm. By ensuring regular testing, clear records, and annual servicing, landlords demonstrate professionalism and duty of care.

These small but consistent measures maintain compliance and give reassurance that each property is safe, compliant, and well-managed.

Practical steps to do now include confirming that your Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) is current and that tenants have received a copy and reminding tenants how to test alarms and what to do in the event of a suspected gas issue.