We use cookies to collect anonymous data to help us improve your site browsing experience.

Click 'Accept all cookies' to agree to all cookies that collect anonymous data. To only allow the cookies that make the site work, click 'Use essential cookies only.' Visit 'Set cookie preferences' to control specific cookies.

Set cookie preferences

Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Publication - Factsheet

Fire and smoke alarms: the law

Last updated
14 August 2024 - see all updates
Topic
Building, planning and design, Housing, Public safety and emergencies

Find out what you need to keep your home safe and compliant.

Home extension, alterations and conversion work

If you are planning to extend, alter or convert any part of your home, such as converting your garage into a living space, you must follow building regulations and ensure any work meets fire alarm standards.  

This might mean you need permission for work to be carried out (a building warrant), for example for mains operated alarms.  

More information on the building standards system and how to obtain a building warrant can be found in the Building Standards Customer Journey.  

If you are looking for advice on a specific project, please contact your local council, who administer and enforce the Scottish building standards system. See contact information for your local authority building standards service.  

First published
21 October 2020
Last updated
14 August 2024 - show all updates

  1. Text updates made to all sections of guidance.

  2. Added information on timescales.

  3. Updated information on what homes need, open plan areas and approved suppliers.

  4. Tense changed.

  5. Additional information on help with costs for older and disabled people added.

  6. Updated question relating to Asbestos in ceilings and how it affects installation

  7. Revised in the light of feedback requesting more information about help with costs, information about suppliers and fitters of alarms, and clearer information.

  8. Revised the Q&A format and added in email contact details.

  9. Minor update

  10. Re-ordered questions and added sub-headings

  11. Updated question relating to specialist alarms

  12. Further revisions to questions and answers published.

  13. Revisions to questions and answers published.

Back to top