Gas Safety Certificate

A Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) is a critical legal requirement for landlords in the UK, ensuring the safety of tenants by confirming that all gas appliances in a rented property are safe and functioning correctly. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the requirements, responsibilities, and key points related to gas safety certificates:

What is a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)?

• A CP12 is a document issued by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer after inspecting and testing gas appliances and installations in a rented property.
• It confirms that the gas appliances (e.g., boilers, cookers, fires) and flues are safe to use and comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998.

Legal Requirements for Landlords:

1. Annual Gas Safety Checks:
   • Landlords must ensure that all gas appliances and flues in their rented properties are inspected annually by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer.
   • The inspection must include:
     • Checking appliances for gas tightness.
     • Ensuring proper ventilation and flue flow.
     • Verifying correct operating pressure and burner performance.
     • Checking for Carbon Monoxide (CO) emissions.
2. Providing the CP12 to Tenants:
   • A copy of the gas safety certificate must be provided to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
   • For new tenants, the certificate must be provided before they move in.
   • Landlords must keep a record of the gas safety certificate for at least 2 years.
3. Boiler Flues in Flats and Apartments:
   • If a boiler flue is hidden behind walls or ceilings and cannot be inspected, the boiler will be classified as “At Risk” by the Gas Safe Engineer.
   • From 1 January 2013, the engineer will turn off the boiler until inspection hatches are installed in appropriate locations to allow proper inspection.

Responsibilities of Landlords:

• Ensure all gas appliances are safe and maintained in good condition.
• Arrange annual gas safety checks by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer.
• Provide tenants with a copy of the CP12 within the required timeframe.
• Keep records of gas safety certificates for at least 2 years.
• Address any issues identified during the inspection promptly.

Responsibilities of Tenants:

• Tenants must allow access to the property for gas safety inspections.
• Tenants should report any issues with gas appliances to the landlord immediately.

What Happens During a Gas Safety Check?

1. Inspection of Appliances:
   • The engineer will inspect all gas appliances, including boilers, cookers, and fires.
   • They will check for gas leaks, proper ventilation, and correct operation.
2. Flue Inspection:
   • The engineer will inspect flues to ensure they are not blocked and are safely removing combustion gases.
3. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Check:
   • The engineer will check for the presence of CO, a deadly gas that can be emitted by faulty gas appliances.
4. Issuing the CP12:
   • If all appliances and flues are safe, the engineer will issue a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12).
   • If any issues are found, the engineer will classify the appliance as:
     • Not to Current Standards (NCS): Safe to use but does not meet current standards.
     • At Risk (AR): Immediate action required to ensure safety.
     • Immediately Dangerous (ID): The appliance will be turned off, and the issue must be addressed immediately.

How to Verify a Gas Safe Engineer:

• Only a Gas Safe Registered Engineer can carry out gas safety checks.
• To verify an engineer, use the Gas Safe Register:
  • Visit: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/find-an-engineer/.
  • Check the engineer’s Gas Safe ID card to confirm their registration and qualifications.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

• Failure to comply with gas safety regulations can result in:
  • Fines.
  • Imprisonment in severe cases.
  • Invalidation of landlord insurance.
  • Civil liability if a tenant is harmed due to negligence.

Key Points to Remember:

• Gas safety checks must be carried out annually.
• A copy of the CP12 must be provided to tenants and kept for 2 years.
• Hidden boiler flues must have inspection hatches installed to allow proper inspection.
• Only Gas Safe Registered Engineers can perform gas safety checks.

Why is Gas Safety Important?

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning: Faulty gas appliances can emit CO, which is odorless, colorless, and potentially fatal.
• Explosions and Fires: Gas leaks can lead to explosions or fires if not addressed.
• Legal Compliance: Landlords must comply with the law to avoid penalties and ensure tenant safety.

If you are a landlord, ensure you schedule annual gas safety checks and provide tenants with the necessary documentation. For assistance with gas safety inspections or to find a Gas Safe Registered Engineer.