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CO and Smoke Alarms: The Law and Your Boiler

When we replace a boiler, especially in older housing stock like the Victorian terraces around Whelley, or even the 1930s semis toward Beech Hill, it's a hard rule that any room with a fixed combustion appliance, like a gas boiler, must have a CO alarm. Smoke alarms are also mandatory on each storey of a residential property. We're not just fitting a boiler; we're considering the entire safety envelope of that property. This isn't optional; it's a legal requirement that we take seriously.

  • CO alarm for every room with a fixed combustion appliance.
  • Smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation.
  • Alarms must be tested at the start of every new tenancy.

Placement, Testing, and Record Keeping

Correct alarm placement is crucial. CO alarms should be at ceiling height, between 1m and 3m horizontally from the boiler, and not directly above a door or window. Smoke alarms need to be strategically placed to detect smoke effectively, usually in hallways or landings. Once installed, it's not a 'fit and forget' situation. We’ll test all alarms during our installation, log the results, and register the new boiler's warranty. You then have a duty to test them at the start of each new tenancy, and make sure your tenants are aware of their own testing responsibilities during their occupancy. We provide documentation for all of this.

  • CO alarms: ceiling height, 1-3m from boiler.
  • Smoke alarms: strategic placement for optimal detection.
  • Documented testing on completion of boiler replacement.

Beyond the Standard: When Things Get Tricky

Sometimes, properties present unique challenges. For example, modern apartments near the Wallgate quarter might already have integrated smoke detection systems, which we'll need to verify are working correctly and are compliant. Similarly, if there are multiple combustion appliances in different rooms, then each of those rooms needs its own CO alarm. Our process ensures we assess each property individually, identifying any areas where the standard requirements might need additional considerations to meet full compliance. Our aim is to leave you with a fully compliant, safe property.

  • Assess existing integrated systems in modern properties.
  • Multiple CO alarms for multiple combustion appliances.
  • Address unique property layouts for comprehensive safety.

Typical landlord boiler replacement — alarms and safety devices work in Wigan

For Wigan householders and landlords dealing with alarms and safety devices. Local housing stock — Victorian terraces round Whelley, 1930s semis toward Beech Hill and modern apartments near Wallgate quarter — shapes how this work is carried out.

  • New boiler fitted in a rental property.
  • Ensuring CO alarm compliance post-installation.
  • Checking smoke alarm placement on all levels.
  • Updating safety documentation for tenancy agreements.
  • Pre-tenancy safety check and landlord duties.

Why locals choose Brogas here

We are a Gas Safe registered business, Brogas. We ensure all CO and smoke alarms are correctly sited, tested, and documented during your boiler replacement. You are left with a new boiler, a Gas Safety Record, and clear documentation of alarm compliance.

Wigan FAQs — landlord boiler replacement — alarms and safety devices

Does a new boiler mean I need new CO and smoke alarms?+

Not necessarily, but it's the ideal time for us to check their expiry dates, placement, and functionality. Any room with a fixed combustion appliance must have a CO alarm, and all stories used for living must have a smoke alarm. If yours are old or incorrectly sited, we'll advise on replacements during the boiler installation.

Who is responsible for testing the alarms during a tenancy?+

As the landlord, you are responsible for ensuring all alarms are in working order at the start of each new tenancy. During the tenancy, the tenant is responsible for testing the alarms regularly and reporting any faults. We provide documentation detailing the alarms' status after our work.

What if my property has an open flue appliance?+

If your rental property, especially older housing stock, has an open flue gas appliance alongside the boiler, then the CO alarm requirements are even more critical. We ensure correct alarm type and placement for these scenarios, adhering to all current regulations to safeguard tenants.

How do I prove I've met my alarm safety obligations?+

On completion of our boiler replacement, we provide a Gas Safety Record which includes details of any CO alarm installation or checks we’ve performed. We also document the smoke alarm status. This, along with your tenancy agreement's clauses on alarm testing, forms your record of compliance.

In summary

Brogas provides landlord boiler replacement, focusing on compliant CO and smoke alarm installation, testing, and record-keeping. We ensure tenant safety and your legal obligations are met, tailored to your property's specific needs.