Smoke Alarms

• Smoke alarms work by detecting particles of smoke.
• They are recommended for areas where there is a risk of smoke, such as living rooms and bedrooms.

Heat Alarms

• Heat alarms work by detecting very high temperatures.
• They are recommended for areas where there is a risk of high heat, such as kitchens.

Interlinked Smoke and Heat Alarms

• Interlinked smoke and heat alarms provide whole-home protection by alerting occupants immediately in the event of a fire.
• They can be either battery operated or mains powered.

The new rules for smoke alarms in Scotland, which came into effect in February 2022, are as follows:

• Interlinked alarms are mandatory: All homes must have interlinked smoke and heat alarms. This means that if one alarm detects smoke or heat, all alarms in the home will sound simultaneously, ensuring everyone is alerted regardless of where they are.

Specific types of alarms required:

• Smoke alarms: One smoke alarm must be installed in every circulation space (hallways and landings) on each floor of the dwelling.
• Heat alarm: One heat alarm must be installed in the kitchen.
• Carbon monoxide alarm (optional): If your home has a carbon fuelled appliance or flue, a carbon monoxide alarm is also required.

• Power source: Alarms must be powered either by the mains electricity or by a tamper-proof sealed battery with a lifespan that matches the alarm's lifespan.
• Landlord and homeowner responsibility: Homeowners and landlords are responsible for ensuring their properties comply with the new standards.

It's important to note that while the deadline for compliance has passed even with existing alarms, installing the required alarms as soon as possible is crucial for improved fire safety in your home..

Yes, complying with the new fire alarm standard is crucial. Here's why:

• Insurance: After February 2022 (compliance deadline), non-compliance could lead to refusal of insurance payouts in case of fire.
• Selling your property: Upgrading to the required standard becomes mandatory for selling your property, as documented in the home report.
• Local authority enforcement: Local authorities can compel compliance if necessary.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) does not generally fit smoke alarms for free in owner-occupied homes. However, they may offer free assistance to vulnerable individuals or households who are identified as "high risk" through their Home Fire Safety Visit assessment.

Here's a summary:

• Most homeowners need to purchase and install alarms themselves.
• SFRS offers free Home Fire Safety Visits:

They assess fire risks and provide safety advice.

They provide interlinked alarms for free to high-risk individuals/households.

If you don't qualify for free fire alarms Scotland, you can find information about the new standards and compliant alarms on the SFRS website: https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/

All homes in Scotland are covered by the new standard, regardless of the type of housing (owned, rented, etc.). This ensures everyone has the same level of fire protection.

The answer is yes. Standard alarms which are not interlinked will not be compliant with the new law, they will need to be replaced with a series of new interlined alarms to adhere to the new law. 

Our alarms come with a 5-year guarantee and include long-lasting batteries (typically lasting at least 10 years). This ensures your alarms are protected and operational for an extended period.

No, you don't necessarily need a qualified electrician to install our alarms. They come with easy-to-use cradles and screws for self-installation.

While not required, you can choose hardwired installation by a qualified electrician. This option typically costs up to £2,000.

Installing our alarms is simple and straightforward. You simply screw the provided fixture into the ceiling and then twist and click the alarm unit into place.