The Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 are expected to come into effect in October, subject to parliamentary approval.

These new rules will make it a legal requirement for smoke alarms to be fitted in all rented homes.

Landlords could face a hefty fine if they fail to comply with the new law and fire services across the UK are now embarking on an awareness campaign.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “The regulations make it compulsory for all landlords to fit smoke alarms in rented homes.

“Under the new laws smoke alarms must be fitted on every level of the property as well as fitting carbon monoxide alarms in properties which burn solid fuels.

“Landlords must check the alarms are working at the start of every new tenancy with landlords potentially facing penalties of up to £5,000 if they don’t comply.

“Government has provided East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service with a limited number of free smoke alarms, which will be prioritised and allocated to the most vulnerable households, via the local authority.”

Mark Cashin, deputy chief fire officer for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, added: “We are delighted that the government has worked with us to bring in these new laws which will improve the safety of families and stop dozens of people from losing their lives to fire each year.

“While overall smoke alarm ownership in the country stands at around 90%, those living in private rented homes are far less likely to have a working smoke alarm.

“Statistically people are four times more likely to die in a fire in the home if there is no working smoke alarm and over the next 10 years it is estimated that the new laws will result in 231 fewer deaths and 5,860 less injuries.”