New fire alarm regulations come into force in Scotland today.
The rules now state that every home in the country must be fitted with an interlinked fire and smoke alarm.
Scottish Government officials made the change to the law following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, which claimed the lives of 72 people in 2017.
When announcing the rule change, Housing Secretary Shona Robison said that the alarm regulations will “significantly reduce the risk of injury or death”.
The devices must communicate with each other so that a fire in one room sets off alarms throughout the property, giving people more time to escape and call emergency services.
New rules in place
A smoke alarm must be fitted in a living room, with one in the hallway and a heat alarm in the kitchen.
All alarms must be able to communicate with one another and can be heard through the property in the case of a fire.
The connection can be made through a radio frequency, and WiFi is not required. Devices can be sealed battery or mains wired alarms.
Scots who have a carbon fuelled appliance - such as a boiler, fire, heater or flue - in any room must also have a carbon monoxide detector, but it does not have to be linked to the fire alarms.
Landlords must install the new system for private tenants.
The Scottish Government said that work is ongoing to make sure that the homes of council and housing tenants meets the new standards.
Which alarms you should buy
The Scottish Government said that there is no list of approved suppliers or fitters. Both types of alarm can be purchased online or in store from a number of retailers.
Alarms must comply with the following standards:
- Smoke alarms - BS EN14604:2005
- Heat alarms - BS 5446-2:2003
- Carbon monoxide detector - British Kitemark EN 50291-1
More information on the types of alarm required can be found on the government website here.
Cost of the units
The Scottish Government estimate that the cost for an average three bedroom house, which requires three smoke alarms, one heat alarm and one carbon monoxide detector will be around £220. This cost is based on the alarms you can install yourself without the help of an electrician.
Any costs will be the responsibility of home owners and landlords.
Older and disabled homeowners on low incomes are able to contact their local Care and Repair Service, which will provide independent advice and help.
