Smoke Alarm Testing & Checks

A damp survey is a specialised examination conducted by our expert surveyors at SE Asbestos Surveys to assess a property for potential damp-related issues. These issues may include condensation, rising damp, or penetrating damp. Our skilled surveyors can accurately identify and differentiate between these problems, ensuring a thorough understanding of any potential timber decay, such as dry rot or wet rot.

With our expertise, we offer comprehensive damp surveys for residential, retail and commercial properties. If you suspect dampness or need a professional assessment, trust SE Asbestos Surveys to deliver reliable and tailored damp surveys to safeguard your property.

Regular fire alarm servicing is a critical aspect of maintaining an effective fire safety system. It is recommended to enlist the services of a competent person, such as one of our team here at SE Asbestos Surveys, for this task at least once a year.

All tests conducted during servicing should be meticulously recorded in the fire alarm logbook to meet fire safety compliance standards. If you find yourself in need of further assistance with understanding fire safety regulations or if you’d like a site survey to identify the optimal fire detection and alert system for your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Call us or send fill in our form to schedule an appointment, and our team will be happy to assist you.

Keeping your fire alarm in optimal condition is crucial for two main reasons:

Life-Saving Alerts: The primary and obvious reason is to promptly alert occupants in case of a fire, preventing potential loss of life.

Preventing False Alarms: Perhaps less known but equally vital is the prevention of false alarms. False alarms contribute significantly to fire brigade call-outs, incurring substantial expenses. More importantly, it can divert crucial resources away from genuine emergencies. Recognizing this, the fire brigade now imposes charges for call-outs to premises with a high frequency of false alarms. This serves as an incentive for businesses to ensure their fire alarms are well-maintained, preventing unnecessary disruptions and costs.

As per current UK fire alarm regulations, it is mandatory for all business premises to be equipped with an “appropriate fire detection system.” This requirement ensures that in the event of a fire, there must be a reliable mechanism in place for the swift detection of the fire, facilitating timely warnings to occupants. Compliance with this regulation is essential to enhance overall fire safety measures and protect lives and property in commercial establishments.

The regulatory requirement mandates the installation of at least one smoke alarm on each storey of a rental property containing living accommodation, including rooms such as bathrooms

or toilets. While the regulations do not specify whether smoke alarms should be hard-wired or battery-powered, the best practice is to opt for hard-wired alarms with battery backup, particularly during property rewiring.

For optimal placement, smoke alarms are typically recommended for installation on the ceiling in the entrance hallway and on any landing. This strategic placement in central circulation areas ensures prompt activation in case of a fire in adjacent rooms. It’s crucial to avoid installing smoke alarms in kitchens to prevent frequent false alarms during cooking. Instead, kitchens are best suited for heat alarms, which, although not covered by these regulations, may be necessary in multi-occupied properties under alternative legislation.

In compliance with UK fire alarm regulations, there is no specified requirement regarding who can install a fire alarm, other than the stipulation that the installer must be ‘competent.’ This implies that the individual or company responsible for the installation should possess the following attributes:

Comprehensive understanding of various types of fire alarm systems and their functionality.

Familiarity with the primary makes and models of fire alarms available in the market.

Ability to identify the appropriate grade and category of fire alarm system required for a specific setting.

Proficiency in designing a fire alarm system tailored to meet the designated grade and category specifications.

Thorough knowledge of British Standard BS 5839, a key standard for fire detection and fire alarm systems.

Capability to design a system in accordance with the requirements outlined in BS 5839.

Strong electrical knowledge to ensure the effective installation and functionality of the fire alarm system.

The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022, effective from October 1, 2022, mandate specific obligations for landlords in the UK. The key requirements include:

Installation of at least one smoke alarm on every storey of properties with rooms used as living accommodation, a legal mandate since 2015.

Installation of a carbon monoxide alarm in any living accommodation room containing a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers.

Timely repair or replacement of faulty smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms upon notification.

Local authorities have the authority to enforce these regulations, with potential fines of up to £5,000 for non-compliance with a remedial notice.

Landlords are encouraged to consider these regulations in conjunction with other relevant laws on fire and carbon monoxide safety, such as the Housing Act 2004, the Fire Safety Act 2021, and the Building Safety Act 2022. Landlords are responsible for accurate application of these laws, and seeking legal advice is recommended if clarity is needed for individual circumstances after reading this booklet.

Failure to adhere to fire safety regulations could result in fines or imprisonment.

It is imperative for individuals and entities to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of occupants and meet legal obligations. Understanding and implementing proper fire safety measures is crucial to prevent potential risks, protect lives, and avoid legal consequences.