Forthcoming changes to the Housing (Scotland) Act
The Scottish Government are set to make proposed legislation changes as part of the Housing (Scotland) Act to fit fire detectors in all homes in Scotland and not just newly built and private rented homes.
Currently, the most rigorous standards are applied to newly-built homes and private rented homes but when the law is updated the requirement for ceiling-mounted smoke and heat alarms will be applied to all homes in Scotland.
In practical terms the alarm requirements by law for all homes shall be;
- One smoke alarm installed in the room most frequently used
- One smoke alarm in every circulation space, such as hallways and landings
- One heat alarm installed in every kitchen
- A carbon monoxide detector where there is carbon-fuelled appliance
In addition, all alarms have to be ceiling mounted and should be interlinked. You can install specified types of sealed long-life battery alarms or mains-wired alarms with a maximum lifespan of 10 years.
The proposed standards are an extension to the existing standards for privately rented properties, so a private landlord should already be complying. As for social landlords, they will have to meet the new standards under the Housing (Scotland) Act which will be monitored by the Scottish Housing Regulator.
The legislation, if enacted in Scottish Parliament will come into force later this year and there will be a two year period for compliance once the regulations are in force, meaning homeowners will have until 2020, However, installing alarms at the earliest opportunity, will provide improved Fire Safety in your home.
The link below will take you to the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety: interim;
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