BS5839 and smoke alarm rules

Maintenance

Hi,

I recently had an EICR performed and a new fuse box fitted.

The electrician was very insistent that he (or I..he could supply) fit RF linked lithium battery powered smoke and CO alarms. He quoted BS 5839-6 which states that I need D1 alarms (mains and linked)but as that was 'too invasive' then he would suggest battery versions.

As I thought he was touting for work I told him that I would get them sorted.

My agent said that the electrician (he is the guy that does all their work) is 'quite fastidious' and that he insists on this for everyone. It was however 'up to me'

I spoke to Fireangel who told me that one smoke alarm per floor is the law. This has been confirmed on other websites, including .gov sites.

I spoke to my local senior building inspector who told me that from his perspective it depended on when the building was built or converted. Mine, being converted some 30 years ago was fine with a battery alarm.

As I see it the electrician is quoting current regs which are only relevant to new builds or new conversions.

I have fitted battery stand alone CO x1. Smoke X2. Heat X1 in a one bed flat that takes 10 paces to walk end to end. I used Fireangel units as supplied by the London Fire Brigade.

May I have your comment on this please? I would like to know the law please.

Many thanks

Best regards

Andy