Carbon monoxide gas detection 'should be common' in UK properties

A plumbing and heating specialist has agreed that gas detection should be commonplace in UK homes in order to reduce the threat of carbon monoxide emissions from old boilers.

Richard Clarke, chairman of maintenance and refurbishment provider 1st Action, points out that the gas cannot be seen, smelt or detected by humans.

When asked whether he thinks gas detection equipment should be installed in homes nationwide, he agrees that it seems like a wise idea.

"I think so ... a lot of homeowners don't pay enough attention," Mr Clarke explains.

However, he adds: "If they have a modern boiler regularly serviced, then that is quite sufficient."

Mr Clarke's comments follow a survey on the company's own website which asked how many people would only consider employing a qualified engineer to service their boiler.

Over a quarter (28 per cent) would take the cheapest option no matter what - which he says places them in a potentially dangerous situation.