When it comes to safety certificate compliance, gas safety should be the number one priority of every landlord. So, if you’re unsure about the gas safety checks and your responsibilities as a landlord, you’re at the right place.
The gas safety regulations (Installation and Use) 1998 state that landlords and letting agents are legally responsible to ensure the safety of gas fittings and appliances in rental properties.
What does this mean?
Landlords must ensure the safety of gas appliances, pipework leading to gas appliances and flues from gas appliances. An annual inspection of all appliances and systems is necessary as well as checking the meter to ensure there are no gas leaks.
Gas safety checks and responsibilities
All UK landlords should be able to provide evidence of:
- An annual gas safety check
- A Gas Safety Certificate or CP12 record
- Ongoing maintenance of gas appliances
What exactly happens during a gas safety inspection
- Carry out a visual inspection of all gas appliances
- Check and record the gas rate and burner pressure
- Carry out a tightness test at the gas meter to ensure there are no leaks
- Test the appliance flue gases
- Check and clean the condense trap
- Check the ventilation and air supply
- Ensure safety devices are working
- Carry out a visual check of your heating system to look for defects, including radiators and hot water cylinders
- Visually inspect the boiler flue system
- Check the pressure vessel inside the boiler
Carbon monoxide alarms
UK landlords must ensure the installation of smoke alarms on every level of their rented residential accommodation. Landlords must also ensure that carbon monoxide alarms are fitted in every room with a solid fuel heating appliance, including used open fireplaces.
