Gas Safety
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What is a Gas Safety check?
• There is a legal duty to the Landlord to have annual safety checks carried out on the gas appliances they provide for their tenant’s use.
• Documentation required by law.
• Safety checks must be carried out by a gas safe registered engineer.
• Results are recorded in detail on a Gas Safety Certificate with copies provided to the Landlord and Tenant.
• Copy of valid and up to date certificate must be presented to a new tenant prior to handing out keys.
• Copies of gas records should be kept on file for a minimum of 2 years (where possible).
Why is it so important?
• It is the responsibility of the landlord, and their managing agent, to ensure that in all applicable properties, an annual safety check is carried out on each gas appliance/flue.
• Failure to do so can lead to prosecution, which in turn can result in imprisonment or a fine of up to £20,000.
• If harm is caused and the case is referred to the Crown Court, the maximum penalty may be imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or both.
• FAILURE TO REMAIN COMPLIANT MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF LIFE.
• Charges can be brought against the Landlord and/or Agent
• Any result in loss of life, due to non-compliance with this regulation could lead to charges as serious as manslaughter for a landlord.
What is included in the report?
• The address of the property.
• A description and location of each appliance/flue checked.
• Name, registration number and signature of the engineer who carried out the check.
• Date on which the check was carried out and when it expires.
• Any safety defect identified, and any action required or taken to rectify it.
• Confirmation of the results of the safety checks carried out on the appliances.
If a defect is identified
• A certificate may only be accepted as satisfactory if the ‘Safe to Use’ section of the certificate is marked ‘Yes’
• If the certificate is marked ‘No’, any recommended works are mandatory
• The Agent/Landlord must ensure the gas supply is turned off and/or the defective appliance is isolated to avoid harm to the tenants
• Ensure the gas supply is turned off and/or the gas to the defective appliance is isolated to avoid harm to the tenants.
• Should there be a requirement for the gas to be turned off, alternative accommodation for the tenant may be required.
• Your Property Manager/Account Manager will arrange an engineer to attend to carry out necessary works.
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