Domestic smoke alarms DG525
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries. Domestic smoke alarms (DG525) was written by Emma Warren and published by BRE on 25 May 2012.
UK fire statistics show that you are almost twice as likely to die in a domestic fire where there is no working smoke alarm. Smoke alarms in homes are easy to use, inexpensive and can save lives giving early warning of fire, allowing occupants to safely escape. They are simple, self-contained but often interconnected units, incorporating a smoke detector, power source and alarm sounder. There are two types of domestic smoke alarm in common use: one is fitted with an ionisation smoke detector, the other with an optical or photoelectric detector.
DG525 provides guidance on the types of domestic smoke alarm available, and on their correct specification, location, installation and maintenance. It reviews recommendations in the relevant regulatory guidance and the use of third-party-approved fire detection and alarm products and installers.
It is intended for UK house builders, building control officers, specifiers, manufacturers, building owners and the fire and rescue services. It may also be of use to professionals in other countries.
The contents of the 8 page information paper are:
- Introduction.
- Types of smoke alarm.
- Interconnection.
- Power sources.
- Selecting smoke alarms.
- Specifying fire detection and alarm systems.
- Installation and siting.
- Maintenance.
- Summary.
- References.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BS 5839-1.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Carbon monoxide detector.
- Fire detection and alarm system.
- Fire detector.
- Fire.
- Ionisation smoke alarm.
- Multi-sensor alarm.
- Optical smoke alarm.
- Smoke detection in high ceiling spaces.
- Smoke detector.
- The causes of false fire alarms in buildings.
Featured articles and news
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.