Stay Safe & Compliant: Latest UK Fire Alarm Rules for Devon Holiday Lets & Rentals

Ashley Ward here, Director of Swaye Electrical Services Ltd in Devon.

We've been helping local landlords and holiday let owners keep their properties safe for years. Think of me as your helpful uncle who gives straightforward, honest advice – no hard sell, just what’s best for you and your guests.

Devon’s holiday rental scene boasts beautiful coastal cottages, rural retreats, and city lets. But recent fire safety updates mean many owners need to check their systems. Here’s a clear, simple guide to the latest rules.

Key Fire Alarm Regulation Updates (2025)

The core rules come from the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and Building Safety Act 2022.

Notable changes from last year:

• From April 2025, platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com require hosts to upload valid fire safety certification before listings go live.

• The Short-Term Rental Safety Act 2024 (phased in early 2025) tightened rules for properties let under 90 days.

• Properties with more than 6 guests now often need annual professional Fire Risk Assessments.

• Updated government guidance (January 2025) better covers glamping pods, shepherd’s huts, and other popular Devon accommodation.

  
  

Main requirements for holiday lets:

• Written Fire Risk Assessment (mandatory)

• Interlinked smoke alarms on every floor (mains-powered with battery backup preferred)

• Smoke alarms in bedrooms, living rooms, hallways and landings

• Heat alarms in kitchens

• Carbon monoxide detectors where needed

• Systems following BS 5839-6 standards

For long-term rentals, landlords must still provide working smoke & CO alarms, tested at the start of each new tenancy.

How This Affects Devon Holiday Lets

Many of our lovely local cottages have older battery-only alarms or missing paperwork. The new platform certification rules have already caused listing issues for some owners. Getting this right protects your guests, your insurance, and your bookings.

Common Issues & Easy Fixes

We regularly see:

• Outdated or non-interlinked alarms

• Missing or old Fire Risk Assessments

• Properties changed by extensions without safety reviews

  
  

Simple steps to get sorted:

1. Book a professional Fire Risk Assessment updated for 2025 rules.

2. Upgrade to modern interlinked mains fire alarms.

3. Add CO detectors and check escape routes.

4. Combine with a full EICR electrical check.

5. Arrange yearly servicing for peace of mind.

We specialise in clean, professional installations that blend perfectly into traditional Devon homes without spoiling the character.

At Swaye, we’re local Devon engineers who genuinely want to help you protect your guests and your investment. Many owners we’ve helped say their properties feel safer and attract more bookings once fully compliant.

If you’ve got a holiday let anywhere across Devon – from Salcombe to Exmoor – drop us a line for friendly, no-obligation advice. We’ll visit your property, give honest recommendations, and help you sort what you need.

Stay safe, Ashley Ward & The Swaye Team - Swaye Electrical Services Ltd

Where There's A Will, There's A Swaye!