If you’re a landlord in the UK, keeping your tenants safe and your property compliant with the law is a top priority. One of the most important parts of this responsibility is arranging a gas safety check and obtaining a Gas Safety Certificate.
This blog will guide you through what a gas safety check and certification involve, why the certificate is important, and how often it should be done. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing multiple properties, staying informed can help avoid fines and ensure tenant safety.
What Is a Gas Safety Check?
A gas safety check and certification is an inspection carried out by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. The aim is to ensure that all gas appliances, fittings, and flues in a property are safe to use. This includes:
- Gas boilers
- Gas cookers and hobs
- Gas fires
- Flues and chimneys
The engineer will check for leaks, ensure the appliances are burning gas safely, and confirm that ventilation is adequate.
What Is a Gas Safety Certificate?
A Gas Safety Certificate, also known as a CP12, is the official document issued after a successful gas safety check. It confirms that all gas appliances in the property are safe and meet legal standards.
The certificate will include:
- Details of the property
- Date of inspection
- A list of all appliances checked
- Any issues found and how they were resolved
- The engineer’s name and Gas Safe registration number
Landlords are legally required to give a copy of this certificate to their tenants within 28 days of the inspection or before a new tenant moves in.
Why Is It Important?
Legal Requirement
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must ensure gas appliances are checked every 12 months by a registered engineer. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment.
Tenant Safety
Gas leaks and faulty appliances can lead to serious health risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or explosions. Regular checks help prevent these dangers.
Peace of Mind
Having a valid Gas Safety Certificate reassures both landlords and tenants that the property is safe. It also protects landlords in case of legal disputes.
How Often Should It Be Done?
A gas safety check must be carried out annually. You can arrange the next inspection up to two months before the current certificate expires without affecting the renewal date.
It’s a good idea to keep track of expiry dates and set reminders to avoid last-minute panic or lapses in compliance.
Who Can Carry Out a Gas Safety Check?
Only engineers who are Gas Safe registered are legally allowed to carry out gas safety checks and certification in the UK. Always check the engineer’s ID and registration number before allowing them to inspect your property.
You can verify an engineer’s credentials on the official Gas Safe Register website.
What Happens During the Check?
During a typical gas safety inspection, the engineer will:
- Inspect all gas appliances for leaks or faults
- Check gas pressure and ventilation
- Ensure the fuel is working properly
- Test carbon monoxide detectors
- Record their findings
If any issues are found, the engineer will advise on what needs to be fixed and may shut off any appliance that poses a danger.
What Should You Do with the Certificate?
Once you receive your Gas Safety Certificate:
- Give a copy to your current tenants within 28 days
- Keep a copy for at least two years
- Provide a certificate to new tenants before they move in
If you’re renting out a property as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), this document is also required when applying for or renewing your HMO licence.
Choose a Reliable Partner for Gas Safety Check
Working with a professional and experienced company makes the whole process smoother. HMO Horizon provides reliable gas safety checks and certification services for landlords across the UK. Their fully qualified engineers are registered with Gas Safe and understand the legal responsibilities landlords face.
With HMO Horizon, you get peace of mind knowing your property is in safe hands, and your certificate is always up to date.
A gas safety check is not just a legal obligation – it’s a vital step in ensuring the health and safety of your tenants. With yearly inspections and proper documentation, you can avoid legal issues and provide a safe living environment.
Make sure you:
- Book checks annually with a Gas Safe engineer
- Keep certificates organised and up to date
- Act quickly on any problems identified
Staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right support, you can manage your responsibilities as a landlord with confidence.