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Landlords are required by law to install working smoke and CO alarms in their properties. However, trading standards officials from Leicestershire County Council have issued a warning to landlords to check whether the CO alarms they purchase do actually work.
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Trading Standards officers purchased nine alarms, six from online retailers and three from local stores. Three of those purchased online were found to be defective, whereas those purchased locally worked just fine. Of the three faulty CO detectors, two were sold by UK suppliers and have now been removed from sale, but the third is still for sale online from several big websites and could easily be purchased by unwitting landlords and homeowners.
How to Test CO Alarms
Tenants should be reminded to test their CO alarms regularly. This can usually done by pressing the test button on the device, but do check the information supplied with the CO alarm purchased and pass this on to the tenant at the beginning of the tenancy. If the alarm is battery operated, buy one that comes equipped with long-life batteries and a 10-year guarantee.
CO Safety
Carbon Monoxide is odourless and tasteless, which is why it is so deadly. Most people are unaware there is a problem until it is too late if there is no CO detector installed. However, although a CO detector can alert tenants to problems with gas and solid fuel appliances, they do need to be reminded to check their alarm regularly and you need to make sure you invest in good quality products from reputable suppliers.
