Plans to make every home in Scotland have an interlinked system of fire alarms will be pushed back to 2022.
The Scottish Government had originally intended the legislation to take effect from next year - but have now announced a delay to the proposals due to the impact of Covid.
The measures, which would cost an estimated £220 for an average three-bedroom home, were due to come into force in February.
Age Scotland, a charity campaigning on behalf of older people, said there was a lack of public awareness of the rule change.
MSPs will now be asked to formally delay the scheme.
Housing minister Kevin Stewart said: “Fire safety is an absolute priority for the Scottish Government, and we remain committed to implementing these improved regulations, which will mean everyone will benefit from the same level of protection, whether they own their home or rent from a social or private landlord.
“Given the impact of COVID-19, and the difficulties this is likely to create for people seeking to install new smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, we have listened to concerns and decided to ask the Scottish Parliament to delay implementation.
“If this delay is approved, we will continue to work with partners to spread awareness of the changes before the new deadline.
"Our focus will be on supporting householders to ensure satisfactory fire alarms are installed so we can improve the safety of their homes.”
Adam Stachura of Age Scotland said: "The big concern that we have is that we have lost a year in the planning for this as a result of coronavirus."
He told BBC Scotland the charity had received many calls from concerned older people, who are wary of getting work carried out in their home during the pandemic.
