Update to CO alarm rules in Wales in 2025
Updates are due to come into effect in Wales to Approved Document J (Combustion appliances and fuel storage systems) 2010 edition incorporating 2010 and 2024 amendments.
Where a new or replacement fixed flued combustion appliance of any fuel (oil, gas – including LPG – and solid fuel) type is installed in a dwelling (including fixed flued cookers), a carbon monoxide alarm should be provided.
A CO alarm is required in the following:
– In every space (including connected spaces, for example, attached garages and loft spaces) containing a fixed combustion appliance (including a fixed flued combustion appliance used for cooking), and
– In high-risk accommodation, ie, a bedroom or principal habitable room such as a living room, where the flue serving a combustion appliance passes through these rooms.
Carbon monoxide alarms should comply with BS EN 50291-1:2018, include an integral sounder and be powered by a battery designed to operate for the working life of the alarm. The alarm should incorporate a warning device to alert users to the end of its working life.
The changes to Approved Document J come into effect on 6 January 2025.
