Check detector expiry dates

Landlords and letting agents are reminded to ensure they check the expiry dates of smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors in their rental properties and replace detectors on or before the expiry date.

We recently heard from a member whose expired carbon monoxide detector failed to alert tenants to a boiler which was leaking carbon monoxide. To avoid potentially life threatening situations like this it is vital that landlords and agents have a system in place to ensure dates are checked and replacement detectors fitted where necessary.

The safest system is to note all expiry dates at the point detectors are fitted and use property management software or interactive diaries to record the dates and flag up a reminder in advance of when detectors are nearing their expiry dates. Detectors typically last for 5-10 years. It is also best practice to check that detectors are working correctly when conducting property inspections.