Scottish homeowners urged to plan now for change in fire safety laws
New rules are coming into force in February
Last updated 19th Aug 2021
Scots families are being warned we have six months to make sure our homes are fitted with extra smoke and heat alarms to comply with new fire safety laws being brought in following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.
From February, all homeowners will be required to have linked alarms under the changes in the law which were due to come into effect earlier this year but were delayed until 2022 because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Private rented and new-build homes must already meet these standards but they will apply to every home in Scotland from February, regardless of age or tenure.
What are the new rules?
The new regulations mean every home in Scotland should have a smoke alarm fitted in the living room in order for the property to meet "tolerable standards'', as well as in circulation spaces such as hallways and landings.
They also require a heat alarm to be fitted in every kitchen, with alarms connected so they can be heard throughout the home.
What will it cost?
The Scottish Government estimates the cost for an average three-bedroom house which requires three smoke alarms, one heat alarm and one carbon monoxide detector at around #220 - based on using the type of alarms that can be installed by a homeowner without needing an electrician.
Housing Secretary Shona Robison said: "One death from a house fire is one too many and improving fire safety remains our utmost priority.
"That is why we are providing £500,000 to help disabled and older people, on top of the #1 million we have already provided to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to install alarms in owner-occupied homes identified as being at highest risk.''
"If there is a fire in one room it will set off alarms throughout the property, giving residents more time to escape.
A new campaign will launch on Thursday with TV, radio and digital adverts reminding people of the changes.
"The Scottish Government has provided financial support to our home fire safety visit programme, which will allow us to fit to the new standard in the homes of those identified through our robust criteria as being at higher risk.
"However, if we go to any property that has no detection, we will still provide a battery-operated stand-alone smoke detector and advise the occupant about the new standard for the fire and smoke alarms required by the legislation in all Scottish homes.''