New regulations requiring all rented properties to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are expected to come into force on 10 October 2015, subject to approval.

Under these rules all landlords will have to install alarms on each floor of their properties and test them prior to any tenancy.

Landlords failing to meet these regulations could face a penalty of up to £5,000.

The government has announced a £3 million subsidy to landlords which will see 445,000 smoke and 40,000 carbon monoxide alarms offered for free through the fire brigade.

Michael Portman, managing director of LetRisks, said some landlords were failing to keep their property in a safe order.

“According to the government’s own impact assessment, over 200 lives could be saved over the next 10 years by the introduction of this legislation,” he said.

“Most landlords and agents will be supportive of this new ruling, but there will be many landlords that will carry on failing to take their duty of care seriously.  It is a sad fact that virtually every week, there are reports of landlords being prosecuted for breaching safety regulations.

“It is essential that landlords and agents prepare their properties prior to October 2015, to ensure they are compliant when the new law comes into force, or they could face a heavy fine.

“Landlords and agents should start installing the adequate number of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, in line with the new ruling and ensure that all alarms are in working order.  Particular attention should be paid to blocks of flats, where it is essential that smoke alarms are fitted in each flat and not just in the common areas.

“The cost of fire alarms to landlords is small, with a ten year sealed alarm costing around £15. A working smoke alarm can make the difference between life and death and should be seen as every bit as essential as a lock on the front door.”