Steven Peter Martin

Advice for UK landlords and managing agents about Gas Safety Regulations

Advice for landlords and managing agents in the UK. Gas Safety Regulations

These regulations require landlords (or their agents), to ensure that all gas appliances, fittings, and flues are maintained in a safe condition. Part of the requirement is to have all appliances, fittings and flues tested for safety by a qualified CORGI registered engineer. The test has to be carried out before the property is let to a tenant and a certificate issued to each tenant before they move in. Thereafter, the property must be tested on an annual basis and a new certificate issued to the tenants within 28 days.

The annual test does not necessarily ensure the gas installation is safe, and it is also recommended that they are serviced and maintained regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and by a CORGI engineer.

If you are letting the property you will need to obtain a copy of the certificate from the landlord before checking tenants into the property. If you are managing the property, it will usually be your responsibility to arrange for the annual safety check –depending on your terms of business with the landlord which should clearly state who is responsible. As the agent responsible, you may also need to prove that you are doing more than just issuing a certificate from a sub-contractor once a year.

You should ensure:

• That staff are trained in risk assessing properties both at appraisals and property inspections.
• That contractors are qualified, CORGI registered and their registration is in date - this can be checked on the CORGI website given in the resource section at the end of the chapter.
• Details of any repairs should be logged and recorded.
• Procedures are in place to make sure checks and repairs are carried out on time.

It is also recommended that the tenant is advised of what to look for in the event of a gas or carbon monoxide escape and what action to take.

General advice includes:

• Keeping all flue vents clear at all times.
• The location of the gas shut of valves.
• Opening all doors and windows in the event of a leak.
• Calling Transco on 0800 111 999 if a leak is detected.
• Calling the landlord or agent to arrange repair.

Tip: The tenancy agreement should allow you access to the property for repair and maintenance issues. In the unlikely event that a tenant refuses entry, for any reason, or with an unreasonable delay then they are putting themselves at risk. You will need to make sure you keep a record of their refusal, and the landlord may need to take legal action to gain access, if necessary.

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