Question reference: S5W-33684
- Asked by: Alison Johnstone, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Green Party
- Date lodged: 2 December 2020
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Current status: Answered by Kevin Stewart on 9 December 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what it is doing to ensure that (a) people on low incomes, (b) older people and (c) vulnerable people are supported to (i) acquire, (ii) install and (iii) maintain in working order the smoke and heat alarm equipment specified in the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 (Tolerable Standard) (Extension of Criteria) Order 2019.
Answer
The Scottish Government has provided information on its website and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have been providing information and leaflets during their Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) on the types of alarms that will meet the required standard. It will be the responsibility of the homeowner to meet the new fire and carbon monoxide alarm standard. However, local authorities have broad discretionary powers to provide advice and assistance to home owners with work needed to look after their homes, as they are best placed to determine what assistance should be provided in their area.
Help for vulnerable people who are at a higher risk of fire, as determined by the SFRS, is available. The Scottish Government has, so far, provided the SFRS with over £1m of funding for this purpose.
Homeowners can contact their local Care and Repair service who provide independent advice and assistance to help homeowners (aged over 60 or who have a disability) repair, improve or adapt their homes so that they can live in comfort and safety in their own community.
The type of alarms permitted under the standard are intended to last for 10 years without maintenance, at which point they should be replaced.