Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are mandatory in England and Wales for all rented residential properties in rooms with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). Landlords must install these in social and private rentals, with fines up to £5,000 for non-compliance. While not strictly mandatory for owner-occupiers by law, they are strongly recommended for safety.

Key Regulations and Requirements about carbon monoxide detectors

England: Since October 1, 2022, regulations require a carbon monoxide alarm in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (e.g., gas boilers, wood burners, coal fires).
Wales: The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 requires smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in all rented properties.
Rental Responsibilities: Landlords must ensure alarms are in working order at the start of the tenancy, while tenants are generally responsible for testing them and replacing batteries.
Placement: Alarms should be installed at head height, either on a wall or shelf, roughly 1–3 meters away from a potential source of carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide detector alarm that meets UK market certification

Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in the UK must be certified to BS EN 50291-1 (domestic use) or BS EN 50291-2 (boats/caravans), often featuring the British Kitemark, CE, and UKCA marks. Leading brands providing compliant, 10-year lifespan, or sealed-battery units include Kidde (e.g., 5DCO), FireAngel, Aico, and UltraFire.

Key Certified Products for UK Market:

Kidde K5CO/5DCO: 10-year sensor life, battery-operated, Kitemarked to BS EN 50291-1.
FireAngel (various models): Available via B&Q and Tesco, offering 7-10 year, sealed-for-life options.
Aico Ei3030: A multi-sensor (smoke/heat/CO) unit complying with BS EN 50291-1:2018.
UltraFire UBCO1D: Digital display, 10-year life, CE/UKCA marked.
SafeFlame/Heiman: Available on Amazon UK, featuring EN 50291, 10-year sensors.

Key Considerations for carbon monoxide detectors:

Placement: Mandatory by law in rooms with solid fuel appliances; highly recommended near all gas appliances.
Standards: Ensure the unit is marked with BS EN 50291 and, ideally, the Kitemark.
Lifespan: Look for “10-year life” units to ensure long-term protection without frequent battery replacements.