1. Make sure it's approved
Choose an alarm with EN50291 certification and look for a BSI Kitemark. This means it meets UK safety standards and will alert you properly if carbon monoxide is detected.
How to choose a carbon monoxide alarm
If you rent your home, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is one of the simplest ways to stay safe. Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas you can't see, smell or taste. An alarm is the only way to know it's there.
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Who is responsible?
In most rented homes:
Your landlord must provide a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with fuel-burning appliances (like a boiler or gas fire)
They must make sure it's working when you move in
But it's still a good idea to check you have enough and that they work!
What to look for when choosing an alarm
2. Get it from a trusted place
If you need a Carbon Monoxide alarm, they can be fairly expensive. That's why we are currently providing certified and approved Carbon Monoxide alarms. If you would rather buy your own, always choose a known brand or retailer.
Very cheap alarms from unknown sellers might not work properly.
3. It should be loud
Your alarm should make a loud beeping sound when it detects carbon monoxide. Remember not all CO detectors have a sound. This is especially important at night as you need something that will wake you up!
4. Pick a simple power option
The easiest options for renters are:
Battery-powered alarms
Sealed 10-year battery alarms (no need to change batteries)
These are ideal because you can install them without needing permission or wiring.
5. Check for useful features
Helpful features include:
A test button to check it works
A low battery warning
An end-of-life alert (tells you when to replace it)
6. Know when to replace it
Most alarms last 5–10 years. If your alarm is old, beeps randomly, or shows a warning, it might need replacing.
Where should it go?
For the best protection:
Place one in any room with a gas appliance
Have at least one on every floor
Put one near your bedroom so you'll hear it at night!
What should you do as a renter?
Test your alarm regularly (once a month is a good habit)
Tell your landlord straight away if it's missing or not working!
Never remove batteries or ignore warning sounds.
The bottom line!
Whether you are renting, subletting or even a homeowner: you can still take measures to be safer in your home. Checking you have a working, reliable carbon monoxide alarm could protect you and the people you care about from serious harm.
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