20/05/2026
🚨WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? 🚨
Smoke Alarms vs Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms:
What Contract Holders Need to Know 📢
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are both essential safety devices in rented homes, but they protect against very different dangers. Understanding the difference — and knowing your responsibilities as a Contract Holder — can help keep you and your household safe.
What’s the Difference?
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke from a fire. They provide an early warning so occupants can escape quickly and safely.
Smoke alarms are usually installed:
On every storey of the property
In hallways and landings
Near bedrooms
In living areas where a fire risk may be present
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms
CO alarms detect carbon monoxide gas — a colourless, odourless and highly dangerous gas caused by faulty fuel-burning appliances.
CO alarms are commonly installed near:
Boilers
Gas fires
Wood burners
Open fires
Oil-fired appliances
Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled, making a working CO alarm extremely important.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords are legally responsible for ensuring:
Smoke alarms are installed on every storey used as living accommodation
CO alarms are fitted in rooms containing a fixed combustion appliance
All alarms are in working order at the start of a tenancy
LANDLORDS should also repair or replace faulty alarms once notified by the tenant.
Contract Holders Responsibilities
Tenants also play an important role in maintaining safety within the property.
CONTRACT HOLDERS should:
Test alarms regularly (ideally once a month)
Replace batteries where applicable
Keep alarms clean and free from dust
Report faults or damage to the landlord or agent immediately
Never remove, cover, or disable alarms
If an alarm begins beeping intermittently, this often means the battery needs replacing or the unit may require attention.
Important Safety Tips
Test alarms using the test button — never with smoke or flames
If a smoke alarm sounds unexpectedly, investigate immediately
If a CO alarm sounds, LEAVE the property, get fresh air, and contact emergency services or the gas emergency helpline if needed. Open all windows.
⚠️Do not ignore repeated alarm warnings ⚠️
Why These Alarms Matter
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives by providing early warning of serious dangers. Regular testing and proper maintenance help ensure they work when needed most.
Both landlords and contract holders share responsibility for keeping rental properties safe — simple checks can make a huge difference.
