The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC) have noted that the number of queries regarding carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, and window blinds is alarmingly high.

Landlords are required to fit a smoke detector on every storey of a rental property where someone is living, partially living or is deemed as a habitable area, such as bathrooms and it is mandatory for carbon monoxide detectors to be fitted in all rooms with solid fuel burning appliances.

However, the AIIC are receiving numerous queries, mainly regarding the type of detectors required, the required positioning and when they need to be tested. This is somewhat concerning as the new legislation has been in place for some time now and landlords should be aware of their responsibilities – especially considering the health and safety of their tenant could be at risk.

Furthermore, landlords and their agents do not seem to be aware of the safety requirements relating to blinds and curtains introduced in 2014 by the British Standards Institution. These state that any blinds installed with cords and chains must have breakaway connectors and cord and safety chain retainers, alongside being maintained at a minimum 1.5 metres from floor level. These regulations apply to any new blinds or curtain tracks which are fitted by a professional and where an accident involving a non-compliant blind occurs, the landlord could be liable for prosecution by Trading Standards.

DASH agrees with the AIIC who state that “There is no excuse for anyone in our industry to ignore regulations, this could be dangerous and very costly in the long run”. Landlords and agents have a responsibility to understand their legal obligations and the best way to do that is by joining an organisation like DASH, EMPO, the RLA or the NLA who will keep you informed of any new legal requirements and ensure you are fully up-to-date and compliant.

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