A REMINDER has been issued to landlords across Darlington that they need to ensure they are ready for new fire safety laws.

From October 1, the law requires all landlords to have working smoke alarms in their properties.

The regulations also make it compulsory for private landlords to fit carbon monoxide alarms in any room containing a solid fuel appliance.

They do not include social landlords and houses of multiple occupation, as they are already covered by existing legislation.

The regulations mean it will be compulsory for landlords to:

* fit at least one smoke alarm on each floor of their rented premises;

* fit a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a solid fuel appliance such as a boiler, fire or cooker;

* check that all alarms are working at the start of a new tenancy.

David Burrell, Darlington Borough Council’s private sector housing manger, said: “Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are readily available and affordable so there is no excuse why they should not be fitted, they may also be provided free of charge via the fire service.

"We will take action against any landlords that do not comply with the new laws.”

Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, said: “We are urging all landlords to fit smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in their properties.

“We have a duty to take action against landlords who do not comply with the new regulations. Landlords may also be fined up to £5,000.”

Stuart Errington, acting chief fire officer for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“We are keen to work with local landlords to improve the safety of tenants across our area.

"We have a limited number of carbon monoxide alarms, which will be allocated to landlords whose properties use solid fuel, up to a maximum of ten per landlord.

"These alarms will be allocated as part of an overall free home fire safety check on each property."

For more information, landlords can call the community fire safety team on 0845-223-4221 or email csenquiries@ddfire.gov.uk