Letting agents and landlords can use AIIC independent inventory clerks to conduct the checks on smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in rented properties, which are set to become mandatory from October 1 – the end of this week.

The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks says there has been confusion over who and when such alarms could be checked – does the landlord or agent have to do it themselves, or with a third party tradesman?

The legal position is that from Friday landlords in England, or agents acting on their behalf, will be required to install smoke detectors on every floor of their property where someone is living or partially living. Carbon monoxide alarms must also be fitted in any room within a rented property where there is a solid fuel-burning appliance, including open fires and wood burners.

Both of these alarms must be tested at the start of every tenancy beginning on or after October 1 with a fine of up to £5,000 for any landlord who does not comply.

This checking requirement, however, does not apply to renewed or statutory periodic tenancies.

“As part of an inventory compilation or check in procedure at the beginning of the tenancy, an AIIC independent inventory clerk will be able to check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms for power where possible and report back any problems found,” says Patricia Barber, chair of the AIIC.

“This then paves the way for landlords or their property managers to carry out subsequent checks during mid-term visits.”

She adds: “While the majority of landlords and agents may already have some sort of procedure in place, hopefully this news will help to put some property professionals’ minds at ease, saving time and money.”

The AIIC recently announced details of two new training courses taking place in the next few months covering all aspects of inventory work, including how to deal with all the new regulations on alarms and many other areas. 

Details on www.theaiic.co.uk/product-category/training/.