**New Smoke Detector Regulations for Homeowners in Scotland**

The Scottish Government enacted new Fire and Carbon Monoxide safety Legislation for all homes in Scotland, ensuring equal protection for all households.

Homeowners must now install interlinked smoke and heat alarms, along with sealed carbon monoxide alarms. Ignoring these regulations may lead to invalid insurance coverage.

**Who is Affected?**
These standards apply to all homes, making safety a priority for everyone. Property owners must comply.

**Why Now?**
This legislation follows the Grenfell Tower fire to enhance safety.

**Alarm Requirements**
Homeowners need: - 1x Approved SMOKE alarm in all frequently used living areas i.e. (Lounge, Dining Room, Lower Hallway, Upper Hall, Utility Room etc) and1x Approved HEAT alarm in the Kitchen (Bedrooms and Bathroom's are exempt).

All alarms should be ceiling-mounted and interconnected.

**Carbon Monoxide Detectors**
These are required where carbon-fuelled appliances exist and must be Approved sealed for life units or hardwired.

**Existing Alarms**
Non-interlinked alarms must be replaced with interlinked systems for immediate alerts.

**Types of Alarms**
1. Radio-linked tamper-proof lithium battery alarms
2. Hardwired mains alarms (installed by an electrician, for detailed requirements, see the Tolerable Standard Guidance

**Compliance**
Regulations took effect in January 2022, with homeowners being responsible for their own property. 

**Compliance Checks**
Homeowners should prioritise safety, and compliance are now part of 'Home Reports'. Authorities may enforce compliance, and insurance issues may arise for non-compliance in the event of a Claim i.e. house fire.

** Can you help? **
Of course, we want to ensure you and your family are safe, get in touch and we can advise what you will need to ensure you are Compliant.