Where they go
At least one alarm per storey on the escape route — hallway and landing — with a heat alarm rather than a smoke alarm in the kitchen, since cooking sets smoke alarms off. Living rooms are commonly included.
Smoke and Heat Alarm Installation
A domestic alarm enquiry should consider the property layout, existing devices, intended locations, power source, interconnection and any wider renovation or landlord requirements. Provide photographs and product information where devices already exist so the proposed work can be assessed accurately.
When to enquire
This service may be relevant for
- Replacement of ageing or non-working domestic alarm devices
- Alarm planning during renovation or rewiring
- Landlord and property-manager installation enquiries
- Additional smoke or heat alarms in a residential property
Define the scope
Points to confirm in writing
- Review of property layout and existing alarm equipment
- Confirmation of proposed device types and locations
- Agreement on power, interconnection and product supply
- A clear scope for installation, functional checks and handover
Alarm standards
What grade and category actually mean
Domestic alarm specifications come from BS 5839-6 and are described by two things. The Grade describes the equipment — Grade D1 is mains-powered with a tamper-proof backup, D2 with a replaceable battery backup, Grade F is battery only. The Category describes the coverage — LD3 covers escape routes, LD2 adds high-risk rooms, LD1 covers everywhere.
For new build, conversions and material alterations, mains-powered interlinked alarms with a backup supply are what Building Regulations expect. For an existing owner-occupied home with no building work, sealed long-life battery alarms satisfy the basic duty, though interlinking is a genuine improvement.
Interlinking
One alarm detecting fire should sound them all, which is the entire point when people are asleep upstairs and a fire starts downstairs. Interlinking can be hard-wired or wireless; wireless is often the practical route in an occupied house.
Rented property in England
Since October 2022, landlords must provide at least one smoke alarm on every storey with living accommodation, and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance excluding gas cookers. They must work at the start of each tenancy.
Scotland
Since February 2022 every home needs interlinked alarms: one in the most used room, one in every hallway and landing, and a heat alarm in the kitchen, plus CO where there is a carbon-fuelled appliance.
Questions about smoke and heat alarms
The appropriate arrangement depends on the property and applicable requirements. Provide the property details so the proposed system and interconnection method can be confirmed.
Compatibility, base connections, power source and interconnection need to be checked. Send the existing model and proposed replacement details before purchasing.
Related electrical services
EICR Electrical InspectionsEnquiries for Electrical Installation Condition Reports for homes, landlords and property transactions.Electrical Fault FindingSystematic investigation of electrical problems such as repeated tripping, loss of power, non-working circuits or intermittent behaviour.EICR Remedial WorkQuotation enquiries for electrical remedial work identified in an existing Electrical Installation Condition Report.
Ready to describe the work?
Include the postcode, preferred timing and any useful existing information.