New research for the Carbon Monoxide Be Alarmed! campaign has revealed that almost a third of renters in the UK do not have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in their property, with four in five unaware that it is their responsibility – and not their landlord’s – to provide one.

Private renters are still at risk of CO poisoning nearly two years after legislation aimed at protecting private tenants came into effect. Under current regulations, landlords in England and Wales are only required to provide a CO alarm in properties with a solid fuel appliance, i.e. coal or wood burning stoves. However, in Scotland landlords are legally required to provide CO alarms in all properties.

The Carbon Monoxide Be Alarmed! campaign – run by Energy UK – is calling on government to take action to extend the legislation to ensure all private tenants are protected.

Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of Energy UK and CO Be Alarmed! spokesperson, said: “Our research shows private renters are still at risk of CO poisoning with one in three not having a CO alarm fitted at home. That is why we are calling on government to extend the legislation to protect all private renters including those with a gas appliance, which is over 80% of homes.”