Industry News Victoria Barker 10/11/2023

Fire safety: Important deadline for landlords in Wales fast approaching

Landlords in Wales are reminded that an important deadline relating to the Renting Homes (Wales) Act is fast approaching.

By 1st December 2023, privately rented properties in Wales must have a working smoke alarm on every floor of a property. The alarm must be connected to the electrical supply and be linked to any other smoke alarms that have to be fitted under the regulations.

They must also be fitted where they can be heard by the occupier when asleep.

This is already a requirement for new Occupation Contracts that were created on or after 1st December 2022 – when the Renting Homes (Wales) Act came into force.

Now, these rules will also apply to existing tenancies (Occupation Contracts), that were entered into before the Renting Homes (Wales) Act came into force.

Where the contract-holder was already living in the property prior 1st December 2022,  the landlord must provide smoke alarms no later than 1 December 2023.

Learn more about the Renting Homes (Wales) Act

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act introduced a number of changes to the way properties are let in Wales, including changes to tenancy agreements, possession and health and safety rules.

To access more resources and guidance on the legislation, members can visit our Wales hub, where you will also find a selection of compliant Occupation Contracts.