Rental Properties: Smoke Alarms

Baroness Tonge Excerpts

Thursday 8th May 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

My Lords, the public are safer now than previously, given that the installation of smoke alarms in properties has increased hugely since 1988, when only 8% of homes had a smoke alarm. That figure now stands at 88% of all homes. All that said, this Government listened to the debates in your Lordships’ House and, in November last year, I announced at this Dispatch Box that our comprehensive review of safety in the rented sector would be extended to include consideration of whether to make smoke alarms mandatory. I introduced an order-making power to make them mandatory if our comprehensive review leads us to that decision, so we are conscious of this important matter.

[Baroness Tonge (Ind LD)]

My Lords, the Minister will be aware that many fires in rented and other properties are caused by faulty electrical wiring and faulty electrical appliances. Will she therefore ensure that, when the review is completed, landlords will be required to have an electrical safety check every five years?

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

As my noble friend acknowledges, the review includes electrical safety checks. As I said, it is comprehensive. We will reach a conclusion shortly.