What do the regulations really require for smoke alarms in Scotland?

What do the regulations really require for smoke alarms in Scotland?

11:42 AM, 22nd September 2015, About 9 years ago 5

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Ive spent hours pouring over the legal requirements for smoke alarms in privately let homes in Scotland and what this means practically for landlords.fire

My take on it is that a mains wired alarm on each floor is legally required, if the alarm was fitted after August 2007. More recently ‘statutory guidance’ has been issued which suggests that an interlinked system, with alarms in the living room, kitchen and circulation space is recommended and landlords should install such a system as soon as is reasonably possible.

I have yet to see any legal requirement for this ‘statutory guidance’. PRHP have just referred me to their website, rather than clarify further. Can anyone clarify the minimum legal requirement?

For peace of mind, I understand that landlords would want to follow the guidance, and install an interlinked system, but can that system be wireless? The recommendation is a system compliant with BS 5839 Part 6 Category LD2, Grade D, which would allow a wireless system with sealed Ten Year Battery. Can anyone confirm if this is the case?

Could mean a difference of £££s for some landlords.

Official regulations, as opposed to ‘guidance’ and opinion appreciated!!

Thank you

Julie


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Comments

Neil Patterson

11:49 AM, 22nd September 2015, About 9 years ago

Hi Julie,

I couldn't personally give you the official answer, but have you spoken with and considered joining our friends at the Scottish Association of Landlords SAL.

The SAL wrote an article on this subject for us.

Please see >> http://www.property118.com/scotland-smoke-detection-rules-changed-year-ago/73236/

Mike W

14:18 PM, 22nd September 2015, About 9 years ago

Julie,

Who did the fire risk assessment for your property? That should cover the issue.

The problem here as with most things is vested interests. The seller of smoke alarms will tell you one is required in every room and cupboard. Even the authorities have to cover the 'worst case scenario'. But if you were living in the property and were careful and did not smoke etc etc how many alarms would you fit?

Understanding the whole picture is important.

Florance Kennedy

20:53 PM, 22nd September 2015, About 9 years ago

SAL told me it is now a statutory requirement.

20:54 PM, 23rd September 2015, About 9 years ago

Reply to the comment left by "Mike W" at "22/09/2015 - 14:18":

Hi Mike, no risk assessments, but as you say, there will undoubtedly be 'vested interests' within those carrying out the assessments. Ive yet to see anything which says this 'guidance' is a legal requirement. I still see letting agents recommend only one alarm per floor, and rented flats with only this level of detection. My local fire officer did however confirm that a wireless interconnected system is acceptable, if its been installed by a company who can provide a certificate to confirm that each wireless unit it connected. That was some help!

20:55 PM, 23rd September 2015, About 9 years ago

Reply to the comment left by "Florance Kennedy" at "22/09/2015 - 20:53":

Hi Florance, yes Ive seen them mention this on previous threads. Id like to see the statute however!

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