Overview

The Fire Safety (Protection of Tenants) Bill mandates landlords in England and Wales to install and maintain smoke alarms in rented properties, placing responsibility for testing and reporting faults on tenants. Failure to comply results in penalties for landlords.

Description

This bill aims to improve fire safety in rented accommodation. Key aspects include:

• Landlord's Duty: Landlords must install a mains-powered smoke alarm (with backup battery) meeting British Standard 5839: Part 6 (2004) Grade D before a tenancy begins.
• Tenant's Responsibilities: Tenants must test alarms monthly and report any defects to the landlord.
• Landlord's Repair Duty: Landlords must repair reported defects.
• Enforcement: Local authorities will be responsible for enforcing the Act, as determined by the Secretary of State through regulations.
• Penalties: Non-compliance by landlords is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 12 months imprisonment (summary conviction) or two years (indictment), and/or fines.
• Commencement: The Act comes into force six months after passing.
• Geographic Scope: The Act applies to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in government spending resulting from its implementation will be funded from existing parliamentary allocations. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Landlords: Required to install, maintain, and repair smoke alarms, facing penalties for non-compliance.
• Tenants: Responsible for monthly testing and reporting faults; benefit from improved fire safety.
• Local Authorities: Responsible for enforcing the Act's provisions.

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