Private Tenancies Regulation Changes in Northern Ireland
Private tenancy rules in Northern Ireland have changed, affecting how smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and maintained in rented homes. These updates apply to both new and existing tenancies and set clear requirements for alarm types, placement, power sources and interconnection.
This guide outlines the current Private Tenancies Regulations and Building Regulations in Northern Ireland, including compliance dates and the responsibilities of landlords and tenants.
Quick reference: New smoke alarm regulations for Northern Ireland
- Smoke, heat and CO alarm requirements in Northern Ireland differ from the rest of the UK
- New private tenancies had to comply by 1 September 2024
- Existing private tenancies had to comply by 1 December 2024
- Smoke and heat alarms must be interconnected
- CO alarms are required in rooms with fixed combustion appliances
- Requirements apply to private rented accommodation
Changes to Northern Ireland Building Regulations – Technical Booklet E, May 2025
These amendments to the regulations affect new build properties and materially altered properties, such as loft conversions or extensions.
Fire alarm systems are now required to be installed complying with BS 5839-6 of at least Grade D2, Category LD2 standard, including a smoke alarm or alarms in every habitable room and a heat alarm or alarms in every kitchen.
Further relevant amendments can be found within the full booklet here.
Changes to The Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 made on 30 May 2024
These regulations align Northern Ireland with fire and carbon monoxide (CO) safety measures already in place in other UK jurisdictions, ensuring consistency and best practice for tenant protection.
The primary goal is to significantly improve tenant safety by equipping properties with advanced fire and CO alarm systems.
New tenancies had to be compliant from 1 September 2024.
Existing tenancies, granted before the 1st of September, had to be compliant from the 1st of December 2024.
Key Proposals
More Alarms, Enhanced Protection
The regulations require landlords to ensure a minimum number of smoke, heat and CO alarms to be installed in their properties.
Advanced Interconnectivity
Smoke and heat alarms must be interconnected, by wiring or RadioLINK, ensuring a complete warning system throughout the property. It is recommended that if you have more than one carbon monoxide alarm, they are interlinked to each other.
Reliable Power Sources
Alarms can be mains powered, battery powered (with a tamper proof battery), or a combination of both, for maximum reliability.
Quality and Compliance
All alarms must be manufactured and certified to British Standards (BS), they must also be installed and maintained in accordance with British Standards.
Tenant Responsibilities
- Access for Maintenance: Provide access for alarm installation, maintenance, and repairs.
- Regular Testing: Test and maintain the alarms as instructed. Follow our guidance on alarm testing.
- Reporting Faults: Report any suspected faults to the landlord immediately.
Landlord Responsibilities
- Initial Installation: Ensure the correct number and types of alarms are installed upon tenancy change.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Replace faulty alarms promptly and before expiry.
- Record Keeping: Maintain a clear record of alarm installations and replacements.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Must be installed in any room or circulation space which contains a fixed combustion appliance or a flue.
Smoke Alarms
Must be installed in every circulation space on each storey, and the room which is most frequently used by the occupants for general daytime living purposes (e.g. living room/lounge).
Heat Alarms
Must be installed in every kitchen.
Alarm requirements:
| Area of property | Alarm required |
| Living room / principal room | Smoke alarm |
| Hallways and landings | Smoke alarm |
| Kitchen | Heat alarm |
| Rooms with fixed combustion appliances | CO alarm |
| Rooms with flues passing through | CO alarm |
Typical Minimum Coverage
Need more information?
If you’re unsure how these requirements apply to a specific property or installation, contact Aico’s Technical Support team for more guidance.
