The Welsh Government says new regulations are to be introduced to combat carbon monoxide poisoning.

The regulations will require landlords and their agents to install working carbon monoxide alarms, smoke alarms and undertake an electrical safety test at least every five years.

The Welsh housing ministry, in a letter to a Welsh Assembly Member, says: “Section 91 of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, once implemented, will require landlords to ensure their dwelling is fit for human habitation. Furthermore, section 94 of the Act requires the Welsh Ministers to make regulations relating to the determination of whether a dwelling is fit for human habitation. 

“These regulations will include additional requirements for landlords to install working carbon monoxide alarms, smoke alarms and undertake an electrical safety test at least every five years. With specific regard to carbon monoxide detectors, at least one will be required in any room which has a gas, oil or solid fuel burning appliance. Failure, by a landlord, to comply with this requirement will mean the dwelling is considered unfit for human habitation, regardless of any other actions taken by the landlord.”

The timescale has not been confirmed but it is likely to be this year.