SMOKE alarms and carbon monoxide detectors must now be fitted in all private rented homes.
A new law has made it compulsory for landlords, barring registered social landlords, to install the devices.
The Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 state that a smoke alarm must be fitted on each floor of the premises within the escape route, a carbon monoxide detector must be in each room containing a solid fuel appliance and all alarms should be checked ahead of a new tenancy.
Some tenancies — such as Houses in Multiple Occupation, student halls of residence, hostels and refuges, care homes, hospitals and hospices, long leases and lodgers — are excluded.
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has welcomed the new legislation and is offering a limited number of free devices for some properties. Click here to find out more.
Failure to comply with the new law could result in a £5,000 fine.