Do you have a domestic fire alarm? Fire and smoke alarm regulations are changing to ensure all homes have the highest level of protection following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Regulation changes for Fire and Smoke alarms set out for all homes in Scotland to ensure the upmost protection levels are in place following on from the tragedy at Grenfell Tower.

The Scottish Government have said legislation will now be amended and extend the current existing high standards required for private rental housing to now cover all homes in Scotland.

Moving forward this will mean that all privately owned homes in Scotland will require at least one smoke alarm to be installed in the most frequently used room, hallways and landings should also have at least one smoke alarm installed and kitchens will now require at least one heat alarm to be installed.

Furthermore all homes will require a carbon monoxide detector installed and all alarms will have a 10 year age limit applied.

Consultations and legislation changes surrounding fire and smoke alarms have been taken and announced following the Grenfell Tower disaster in June 2017 in which 71 people died when fire destroyed the high rise in London.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said “Fires and fatalities from fires are decreasing but even one death is too many. Scotland already has rigorous standards for smoke and fire alarms developed over time, with the highest standard currently applied to new build and private rental housing. Now everyone will benefit from the same level of protection, whether you own your home, or rent from a social or private landlord”.

The housing (Scotland) Act 1987 will now be amended to reflect the new requirements, all installed alarms should be ceiling mounted and interlinked.

David McGown, Assistant Chief Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue (SFRS) Director of Prevention and Protection said “The presence of working smoke and heat detectors has been proven to significantly reduce casualties and fatalities occurring as as a result of fires within the home. SFRS therefore welcome and support the next steps from this consultation which will undoubtedly improve safety for all residents regardless of tenure”.

If you would like to ensure your domestic fire alarm is safe contact us and