Homeowners and landlords will not face penalties if they "need more time" to comply with new fire alarm regulations coming into place next week.

From Tuesday February 1, all homes in Scotland will be required to have linked smoke alarms.

It will require one to be installed in the room most used for everyday such as a living room. Others will have to be placed in a hallway or landing.

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Last week, Housing Secretary Shona Robison said the regulations are “designed to protect and save lives” and there will be “no penalties for non-compliance”, stressing that people will not face penalties “if they need more time”.

Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national consumer advice service consumeradvice.scot, has issued guidance to homeowners and landlords who are responsible for ensuring the new standards are met.

The organisation warned that if properties fail to meet the conditions it could impact upon the property’s home report when it comes to be sold, and in some extreme cases home insurance policies could become void.

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Colin Mathieson, spokesperson for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “The new regulations will come into effect next week following a 12-month delay.

“It will be for the property owner, such as the owner occupier or the landlord, to ensure these standards are met and this will include paying the costs of purchasing and installing any new equipment.

“We have put together a list of frequently asked questions for Scots, as well as information videos to help those required to make the necessary changes.

“It is important that everyone in Scotland checks if their property complies, as there is a potential impact on insurance policies, but the government has also made clear there will be no penalties for non-compliance.”