Don't forget the smoke alarm!
Mary-Anne Bowring 04/03/2019
4602
New Smoke Alarm Awareness Campaign for Landlords and Letting Agents
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has launched a campaign called ‘Let it, don’t forget it’ to raise awareness among landlords and letting agents. This campaign encourages them to ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly installed in rented properties.
Understanding the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015
The regulations introduced in 2015 require landlords to install at least one smoke alarm on every storey of a rental property and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel burning appliances. Alarms can either be hard-wired or battery-powered, and landlords can seek advice from their local fire service if needed.
Landlord's Responsibilities for Fire Safety Compliance
Landlords and letting agents are required to ensure that all alarms are in working order at the start of each tenancy. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in a hefty fine of up to £5,000. It is recommended that landlords document the condition of alarms through a signed inventory to avoid disputes
The Importance of Regular Alarm Testing by Tenants
While landlords are responsible for installing and ensuring alarms are working, tenants also need to take part in their fire safety. Renters are encouraged to test alarms monthly, as this simple act can help prevent tragic accidents. If an alarm isn't working, it should be reported to the landlord immediately.
Tragic Case: The Huddersfield Fire and Its Impact
In July 2018, two young boys tragically died in a house fire in Huddersfield due to a lack of smoke alarms. The letting agent responsible was jailed for failing to ensure alarms were fitted. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the life-or-death consequences of not adhering to fire safety regulations.
Legal Implications and How to Stay Compliant with Fire Safety Laws
Landlords who fail to meet fire safety standards risk significant penalties. To ensure compliance, they should familiarize themselves with government regulations on fire safety in rented homes. Regular checks and clear communication with tenants can help avoid tragic consequences and legal trouble.
Planetrent Properties
info@planetrent.co.uk
0208 0599 550 (for sales)
Under Offer: This term applies to a property where the landlord is considering an offer but remains on the market. It implies that further offers may still be considered until the landlord formally accepts or declines the current offer.
Let Agreed: This term indicates that a landlord has provisionally agreed to enter into a rental agreement with a prospective tenant, pending additional checks and referencing. It doesn't require the prospective tenant to have paid a holding deposit.
Let: This term signifies an established binding rental agreement between the landlord and tenant.
For both lettings and sales, the guidance addresses additional terms:
New On The Market: This term is used for a property not advertised since its last sale or rental. It should only be used for a brief period.
New Instruction: It applies to a property assigned to an agent for marketing recently, even if it was previously listed with another agent without being sold or rented.
New and Exclusive: This term refers to a property that is either new on the market or a new instruction, exclusively available through a specific agent or portal.
New Method of Sale/Let: This term is used when a property is being marketed for sale or rent using an alternative approach to the original advertisement, such as transitioning to an auction or sealed bid.
Reduced: This term indicates that a property's price has recently been reduced. The reduction should be genuine and comply with the Chartered Trading Standards Institute's guidelines on pricing practices.