Fire services are urging households — and particularly landlords and property managers — to take urgent action on carbon monoxide safety following a sharp rise in poisoning cases across the UK.
According to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, the number of suspected carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning incidents has doubled nationally since 2020. Call-outs to suspected cases peaked at 7,703 incidents in 2025, compared with 3,876 in 2020, highlighting a growing and often underestimated risk within homes.
Fire services warn that carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it is colourless, odourless and tasteless, meaning occupants often have no warning until symptoms become severe.
“The alarm is the only way you’ll know”
Mike Porter, manager at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and lead officer for carbon monoxide at the National Fire Chiefs Council, said carbon monoxide cannot be detected by human senses.
“We can’t taste it, we can’t smell it and we can’t see it. An alarm is the only way carbon monoxide can be detected,” he said.
Mr Porter also highlighted the human cost behind the statistics, stating that around 50 people die each year in the UK as a result of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.
In August, a man in his 50s died and six others were injured following a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a property in Cornwall, underlining how quickly such incidents can escalate.
Common sources of carbon monoxide in the home
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels and is commonly linked to household appliances, including:
- Gas and oil boilers
- Gas cookers and fires
- Log burners and open fires
- Solid fuel appliances
Fire services believe the cost of living crisis may be contributing to the rise in incidents, with some households delaying boiler servicing or chimney sweeping to save money. These decisions, while understandable, significantly increase the risk of carbon monoxide build-up.
Legal duties for landlords and rental properties
For landlords, carbon monoxide safety is not optional — it is a legal requirement.
Under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations, landlords must ensure:
- At least one smoke alarm on every storey of a rental property
- A carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers)
- Alarms are tested and working at the start of each new tenancy
Failure to comply can result in financial penalties of up to £5,000 per breach, enforcement action by local authorities, and significant legal exposure if a tenant is harmed.
Importantly, responsibility does not end once alarms are installed. Landlords must ensure alarms are suitable, maintained and replaced when required, particularly during property refurbishments or appliance changes.
Why carbon monoxide alarms save lives
Fire services consistently report that carbon monoxide alarms have prevented fatalities, providing occupants with early warning and allowing them to ventilate the property and escape before exposure becomes critical.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
Because symptoms are often mistaken for flu or fatigue, alarms play a crucial role in preventing prolonged exposure.
Mains-powered vs battery carbon monoxide alarms
Landlords and property owners often ask which type of carbon monoxide alarm is best. Both mains-powered and battery-powered alarms have clear benefits.
Mains-powered carbon monoxide alarms
- Permanently powered, reducing the risk of battery removal
- Often include sealed backup batteries
- Suitable for long-term installations and refurbishment projects
- Ideal for HMOs and larger rental properties
Battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms
- Quick and simple to install
- No wiring required
- Ideal for existing properties where minimal disruption is needed
- Cost-effective and compliant when correctly positioned
Modern sealed-for-life battery alarms can last up to 10 years, making them a practical solution for many landlords when installed correctly.
Buying and maintaining alarms
Fire services advise purchasing carbon monoxide alarms only from reputable retailers and ensuring devices meet BS EN 50291 standards.
Landlords and homeowners should:
- Test alarms regularly
- Replace units at the end of their service life
- Never paint over or cover alarms
- Keep vents clear and unobstructed
Registering alarms and appliances with manufacturers can also help ensure owners are notified of safety updates or recalls.
A clear call to action for landlords
This rise in carbon monoxide poisoning cases is a stark reminder that compliance saves lives. For landlords and managing agents, carbon monoxide safety should be reviewed as part of a wider fire risk assessment and property safety regime.
If you are responsible for rental or managed properties:
- Review where carbon monoxide alarms are required
- Confirm alarms are compliant, correctly positioned and operational
- Ensure gas and solid fuel appliances are regularly serviced
- Keep records as evidence of compliance
Official source
The original report was published by BBC News and can be read here:
🔗 Carbon monoxide warning as poisoning cases rise – BBC News
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly47dxj4e8o
Final thought
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, but it is also one of the most preventable risks in the home.
Whether through a professionally installed mains alarm or a straightforward battery-operated device, early detection is simple, affordable and proven to save lives.
For landlords, taking action now is not just about meeting regulations — it’s about protecting tenants, properties and peace of mind.
