Gas safety cert in London

Ensuring gas safety in rental properties is a crucial responsibility for landlords in London. A valid gas safety cert, also known as a Gas Safety Certificate or CP12, is a legal requirement that confirms all gas appliances and installations in a property are safe for use. This blog covers the laws surrounding gas safety certificates, the process of obtaining one, certification procedures for landlords, council requirements, and pricing, providing landlords with comprehensive information to stay compliant and protect their tenants.

Legal Requirements for Gas Safety Certificates

Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords in England and Wales must ensure that all gas appliances, pipework, and flues provided for tenants are maintained in a safe condition. This includes arranging an annual gas safety check carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. The engineer inspects boilers, cookers, fires, and other gas appliances to confirm they are safe and functioning correctly.

Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety cert within 28 days of the check being completed or before a new tenant moves in. Records of these checks must be kept for at least two years. Failure to comply can lead to fines up to £6,000, criminal prosecution, invalid landlord insurance, and inability to serve eviction notices under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988.

The Gas Safety Certificate Process

The process of obtaining a gas safety cert involves:

• Booking an inspection with a Gas Safe registered engineer
• Conducting a thorough safety check of all gas appliances, fittings, and flues
• Testing for gas leaks, carbon monoxide emissions, and appliance efficiency
• Issuing a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) if all checks are passed
• Noting any defects or dangerous conditions that require immediate attention

If any appliances fail the safety check, the engineer will advise on necessary repairs or replacements. Landlords must ensure these issues are resolved promptly to maintain compliance and tenant safety.

Council Requirements and Enforcement in London

London borough councils enforce gas safety regulations as part of their property licensing schemes, especially for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and properties under selective licensing. Landlords must submit valid gas safety certificates when applying for or renewing licenses.

Councils may inspect properties to verify compliance and can impose fines, prosecute landlords, or revoke licenses if gas safety certificates are not up to date. Many councils also require landlords to install carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with gas appliances to enhance tenant safety.

Pricing of Gas Safety Certificates

The cost of obtaining a gas safety cert in London typically ranges from £60 to £120, depending on property size and the number of gas appliances. Additional charges may apply for repairs or urgent appointments.

Some providers offer bundled packages including gas safety checks, boiler servicing, and other landlord certificates, providing convenience and cost savings for landlords managing multiple properties.

Booking Your Gas Safety Certificate

For landlords seeking a trusted and professional service, Landlords Checks Limited offers expert gas safety inspections and certification. Their Gas Safe registered engineers provide thorough safety checks and issue valid gas safety certificates, ensuring landlords meet all legal obligations.

You can conveniently book your gas safety cert service online. Their team offers flexible scheduling and expert guidance tailored to landlord needs.