Landlord gas safety certificates: what landlords in Surrey and South West London must do

If you let a property with gas appliances in England, an annual gas safety check is a legal duty under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. Here is what that means in practice.

How often do you need a check?

Every 12 months. Each gas appliance and flue you provide must be checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer at least once a year.

Since 2018 you can have the check done up to two months before the deadline and keep the original expiry date, as long as you can show the previous checks were done on time. That makes it easier to fit the visit around your tenants.

What you must give your tenants

• Existing tenants must receive a copy of the gas safety record within 28 days of the check.

• New tenants must receive a copy before they move in.

• You must keep records of each check for at least two years.

What the engineer checks

A typical landlord gas safety check includes:

• A tightness test of the gas installation at the meter.

• Checking each appliance's gas rate and burner pressure.

• Flue and combustion checks, and ventilation.

• Testing safety devices on boilers, hobs and fires.

• Recording any defects, classed as "Immediately Dangerous" or "At Risk", which must be put right.

The engineer then issues the gas safety record, often called a CP12.

What happens if you do not comply?

Failing to carry out gas safety checks is a criminal offence. Penalties can include unlimited fines and up to six months in prison, and councils can also take enforcement action. More importantly, faulty gas appliances can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which is why these checks exist.

Tips for landlords

• Diary the renewal date and book two months ahead.

• Combine the check with the annual boiler service to save a visit.

• Fit carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with gas appliances and test them at the start of each tenancy.

• Keep digital copies of every record with your tenancy documents.

Book your landlord gas safety check

The Essential Connection carries out landlord gas safety checks across Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Cobham, Esher, Kingston, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Fulham and Chelsea, from £120 for up to two appliances. Book online or get in touch.