Gas Safety Week

Landlord Obligations

Gas Safety Week, held annually in September, is an awareness campaign led by the Gas Safe Register. It serves as a reminder to landlords of their responsibilities concerning gas safety in rented properties.

Landlords are required to ensure that all gas appliances, including pipes and flues, are maintained in a safe condition throughout the occupancy period. They must arrange for an annual gas safety check to be conducted by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer.

The tenancy agreement should stipulate that tenants must allow access for maintenance and safety checks. If a tenant refuses access, landlords should not use force but should document their efforts to comply with the law. It's crucial to communicate with tenants about the legal requirement for safety checks and their importance.

Once the gas safety check is completed, landlords receive a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) from the Engineer. A copy of this certificate must be provided to tenants within 28 days of the check or at the start of a new tenancy. Landlords should retain copies of these records for at least two years.

Gas Safety Tips for Landlords

Before any gas work is carried out, landlords should ensure that the engineer is qualified for the specific task. Tenants should also be encouraged to check the engineer's Gas Safe ID card for verification.

It's advisable for engineers to inspect and test the pipework between tenancies, even though this is not covered by the annual gas safety check. Additionally, landlords should be aware of regulations regarding concealed flues and ensure that inspection hatches are installed correctly for safety inspections.

Danger Warnings

Since January 2013, flues for sealed, fan-assisted boilers concealed in voids must have inspection hatches for full inspection. If the flue is inaccessible, engineers will label the appliance as 'at risk' and apply a 'Do not use' warning.

If an appliance has been turned off and labeled with a warning notice, tenants must not use it until the defects are rectified. Landlords are responsible for providing emergency heating if a heating appliance is disconnected.