Domestic fire alarms.
Homes use a different standard from commercial buildings. This is how mains-powered interlinked detection works and what a rented property needs to think about.
What a domestic system is
A typical domestic system is a set of mains-powered smoke and heat alarms, each with a battery back-up, linked together so that when one activates they all sound. Domestic detection is covered by BS 5839-6, which describes grades of equipment (Grade D, for example, is mains-powered alarms with a standby battery) and categories of coverage (LD1, LD2 and LD3, which set which rooms are protected).
Where it is used
- Houses, bungalows and flats
- Rented homes and small lets
- Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), where the requirements are usually higher
- Extensions, loft conversions and renovations
Landlords
Landlords in England have specific duties about smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in rented homes. As a general summary, working smoke alarms are needed on each storey with living accommodation, and carbon monoxide alarms where certain heating appliances are present. HMOs and larger buildings typically need more than that, often a properly designed system. Check the current requirements for your property and your local authority.
When to step up
A home with several floors, a shared hallway, a flat above a business or a property let to several unrelated tenants often needs more than stand-alone alarms. We can look at it and recommend a system built to the right standard. See landlords and property managers.
Not the same as commercialDomestic alarms are not designed for commercial premises. A shop, office or pub needs a system designed to BS 5839-1. See BS 5839 explained.
Common questions.
How many smoke alarms does a house need?
A common minimum is at least one on each storey, with heat alarms in kitchens and, ideally, detection in hallways and main living rooms. The detail depends on the property and the category of protection chosen.
Should smoke alarms be interlinked?
Interlinking means every alarm sounds when one activates, so everyone in the home is warned, wherever the fire starts. It is recommended and is standard in new homes.
Do landlords need a fire alarm system?
Landlords have legal duties about smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. HMOs and larger properties usually need more. Ask us, or your local authority, about your property.
Speak to a fire engineer.
Call, message or send the form. We reply the same working day wherever we can.
