Working smoke alarms save lives. Whether you need new smoke alarms installed, existing alarms tested, or a full upgrade to meet Scotland's legally required interlinked alarm standard, SM Grant Electrician provides a professional, certified installation service across Dunoon.
All work is carried out to current Scottish and UK standards by a SELECT Approved electrician.
Scottish Smoke Alarm Law — What You Need to Know
Since February 2022, all homes in Scotland — whether owner-occupied or rented — are legally required to have interlinked fire and smoke alarms installed. When one alarm is triggered, all alarms in the property sound simultaneously, giving you the best possible chance of escaping safely.
The minimum legal requirement for Scottish homes is:
- One smoke alarm in the room most frequently used during the day (usually the living room)
- One smoke alarm in every circulation space, such as hallways and landings
- One heat alarm in the kitchen
- A carbon monoxide detector where there is a carbon-fuelled appliance (such as a boiler, fire or cooker)
- All alarms must be interlinked
If your home does not currently meet this standard, you could be at risk and may face difficulties with home insurance. Contact us today to arrange an assessment.
Hardwired vs. Battery Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms can be powered in two ways:
Hardwired Mains-Powered Alarms
Hardwired alarms are connected directly to your home's electrical system with a battery backup. They are the most reliable option as they are not dependent on battery condition, and are the preferred choice for new installations and rewires. All hardwired interlinked alarms are installed by SM Grant Electrician to BS 5839-6 standards.
Long-Life Battery Alarms
Where running new cabling is not practical, we can install sealed long-life battery alarms (typically 10-year battery life) which can still be wirelessly interlinked. These are a popular retrofit solution for homes where a full rewire is not being undertaken.
Our Smoke Alarm Installation Service
- Full assessment of your property to establish the correct number and type of alarms required
- Supply and installation of interlinked smoke alarms, heat alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Hardwired mains-powered installation where required
- Wireless interlinked battery alarms as an alternative
- Testing of all alarms on completion
- Advice on ongoing testing and maintenance
- Certification issued upon completion of any notifiable electrical work
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colourless gas produced by faulty or poorly ventilated fuel-burning appliances. It is known as the silent killer. Scottish regulations require a CO detector to be installed in any room containing a carbon-fuelled appliance.
We install CO detectors as part of a full alarm package or as a standalone installation, ensuring your home is protected against this hidden danger.
Smoke Alarm Testing & Maintenance
We also assist homeowners who need existing alarm systems inspected or tested, including:
- Testing existing interlinked alarm systems
- Replacing faulty or end-of-life alarms
- Upgrading standalone alarms to a fully interlinked system
- Replacing expired battery units
Smoke alarms have a typical serviceable life of 10 years. If your alarms are older than this, they should be replaced regardless of whether they appear to be functioning.
Fully Certified & Compliant
All smoke alarm installation work is:
- Compliant with Scottish Government Tolerable Standard requirements
- Installed to BS 5839-6 standards
- Covered by our public liability insurance