Gas safety certs

For landlords in London, maintaining gas safety certs is not just a legal obligation but a vital part of ensuring tenant safety and property compliance. Gas safety certificates, also known as CP12 certificates, confirm that all gas appliances, fittings, and flues in a rental property have been inspected and are safe to use. This blog covers the laws governing gas safety certs, the inspection process, certification procedures for landlords, council requirements, and pricing, providing a comprehensive guide to help landlords stay compliant and protect their tenants.

Legal Requirements for Gas Safety Certs

Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must ensure that all gas appliances and installations in their rental properties are checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This includes boilers, cookers, fires, and pipework. The engineer must carry out a thorough safety inspection to detect any leaks, faulty appliances, or ventilation issues that could pose a risk.

Landlords are legally required to provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety cert within 28 days of the inspection or before new tenants move in. Records of these certificates must be kept for at least two years. Failure to comply can result in fines up to £6,000, criminal prosecution, invalid landlord insurance, and difficulties in serving eviction notices.

The Gas Safety Cert Inspection Process

Obtaining a gas safety cert involves the following steps:

• Booking an inspection with a Gas Safe registered engineer
• Conducting a detailed 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 appliances pass the inspection
• Documenting any defects or dangerous conditions that require urgent repair

If any appliance fails the inspection, landlords must arrange repairs or replacements promptly to maintain compliance and tenant safety.

Council Requirements and Enforcement in London

London borough councils enforce gas safety regulations rigorously, especially for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and properties under selective licensing. Landlords must submit valid gas safety certs when applying for or renewing licenses.

Councils may conduct inspections to verify compliance and can impose fines, prosecute landlords, or revoke licenses if gas safety certs are missing or outdated. Many councils also require landlords to install carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with gas appliances to enhance tenant safety.

Pricing of Gas Safety Certs

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.

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

Booking Your Gas Safety Certs

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 certs, ensuring landlords meet all legal obligations.

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