What Is a Landlord Gas Safety Certificate and Do I Need One?
If you rent out a property with any gas appliances (boiler, gas fire, gas cooker), you are legally required to have an annual Gas Safety check. Here is everything you need to know to stay compliant and keep your tenants safe.
What is a Gas Safety Certificate?
The official name is a Gas Safety Record, commonly known as a CP12. It is a certificate issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer after inspecting all gas appliances and flues in a rental property. The certificate confirms that everything is safe and working correctly.
Is it a legal requirement?
Yes. Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, all landlords must have a Gas Safety check carried out on every gas appliance in their rental properties every 12 months. This includes:
- Gas boilers
- Gas fires
- Gas cookers and hobs
- Gas water heaters
What happens during the check?
The engineer will:
- Check all gas appliances for safety and correct operation
- Inspect flues and ventilation
- Test for gas leaks
- Check gas pressure and flow
- Test safety devices
- Issue a CP12 certificate listing all appliances checked and their condition
What are the penalties for not having one?
Failing to comply can result in:
- Fines of up to £6,000 per offence
- A criminal record
- Imprisonment in serious cases
- Invalidation of your landlord insurance
- Civil liability if a tenant is harmed
Your responsibilities as a landlord
- Arrange the Gas Safety check annually, ideally at the same time each year
- Give a copy of the CP12 to your tenants within 28 days of the check
- Give a copy to new tenants before they move in
- Keep records for at least 2 years
We offer landlord packages for multiple properties across the North East. Certificates are emailed the same day, and we handle the scheduling so you do not have to remember.
Need help with your boiler? Our Gas Safe registered engineers cover the North East. Get in touch today or call 07579 760536.