Why Landlords Should Keep Their Gas Safety Certificates Up to Date
Landlords must make sure the gas appliances are safe and in compliance with the regulations. Failure to comply could result in fines and compromise the security of tenants.
CP12 is the abbreviation used for CORGI Form 12. Also known as a Gas Safety Certificate, or Landlord's Gas Safety Record.
Gas pipework, appliances and flues have to be tested every year. But some landlords have difficulty to gain access to their properties and are forced to shorten their inspection cycle.
It's a lawful requirement
If you're a property owner with one property or several rental properties, it's crucial to keep your gas safety certificates up to date. A fine or even a prosecution could result from failing to comply. It is also advisable to have your gas appliances inspected, and show a valid certificate in each property.
A gas safety certification contains details such as the date of inspection, the address of the building that was inspected, the information of each appliance checked with their current condition, and the name and number of the engineer who carried out the survey. It also identifies appliances that are considered to be unsafe for use and gives suggestions on how to fix the problem. The engineer will issue an "ID code" when they discover appliances that aren't appropriate for. If an appliance is considered to be in danger, but not immediately it will be issued an "AR" code.
Tenants can sometimes refuse access to a gas security check which is when the relationship between landlord and tenant could be strained. However landlords must take every reasonable step to comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations of 1998. This includes attempting multiple times to perform the checks, and notifying tenants that this is required for their safety. It's also an excellent idea to include arrangements for access in the lease agreement.
Landlords should be sure to have a copy of their gas safety certificate in each property. This will help to prevent tenants from moving into a property with unsafe gas appliances and will also allow potential tenants to review the results of the safety checks. A gas safety certificate can also help you build an image of a responsible landlord. This will help you attract more tenants.
A Gas Safe Registered Engineer can not only guarantee that your gas equipment is safe however, a service contract will also save you money and time in the long run. Many gas companies offer discounted prices on annual Gas Safety Certificates. It's a good idea to shop around to find the best price for you.
It's a great idea
As an owner, it is your obligation to ensure the safety of all gas appliances in your property. Gas Safe engineers can perform regular inspections to detect and address issues before they become more dangerous and serious. gas safe installation certificate can aid in keeping gas boilers, and other equipment in good condition which will allow them to last longer.
Landlords are legally required to have a valid Gas Safety Certificate for each of the gas appliances in their homes. Without these certificates, landlords risk huge fines and could discover that their appliances are unsafe to use for tenants. Fortunately, it's easy to obtain a Gas Safety Certificate for your home by hiring a qualified engineer and arranging for an appointment.
Gas Safety Regulations require a minimum of a once-a-year gas inspection. However it is recommended to conduct more frequent inspections if you have been away from your property for a prolonged period. Gas safety regulations require a yearly gas check, but it's a good idea perform more frequent gas inspections, especially if the property has been left empty for a long period of time.
It is essential to have an up-to-date gas safety report before letting the property. This is so that you can transfer keys to your new tenants. A re-inspection is also necessary when the older appliances have been used by the tenants or any work has been completed on the gas system since the last inspection.
It's a good idea to request your tenant to give access to their home prior to any inspection. If they are reluctant you can mail them a clearly written letter explaining the reasons for access and what the gas safety inspection will entail. If they do not agree, you can begin the eviction process by sending them an official notice under section 21.
Gas safety is your number one priority. You must carry an Gas Safety Certificate on all of your gas appliances. If you don't, you could risk losing your deposit to rent and potentially face legal action from your local council or the Health and Safety Executive. To avoid this, it's always recommended to schedule regular inspections conducted by a qualified Gas Safe engineer and make sure that your Gas Safety Certificate is up to date.
It's a pain
When it comes to landlord gas safety inspections there are a lot of people who are not satisfied with the situation. It is not only a legal requirement but also a good idea to ensure that tenants are using appliances that have been tested by experts. If something goes wrong, it could result in a gas hazard situation that could be catastrophic for anyone who lives in or within the building.
Certain tenants, however, aren't willing to permit these inspections. This is understandable. They might think it's a violation of their privacy or believe that the check is some sort of ploy to spy on their activities or habits. However, landlords must keep in their minds that they are legally bound to conduct the inspections and can only do this when tenants allow them access to their property.
It can be a hassle for landlords to have to deal with tenants who are resistant, especially if they own multiple properties. It's important that landlords remember that if their gas safety certificate is not obtained, they may be penalized with heavy fines and tenants might not be allowed to move into the house until the issue is resolved.
It's also a good idea for landlords to keep copies of the gas safety certificates in case the property is ever repossessed. They might not be able prove they've conducted the proper inspections if previous tenants didn't keep a copy, so it's worth keeping a record just in case.
The Health and Safety Executive can prosecute a landlord if they do not provide their tenants with a copy of the certificate of gas safety within 28 days after an inspection. So if you're a tenant, it's best to get one from your landlord immediately.
Landlords should keep their Gas Safe certificates up to date and provide a copy with their tenants. They can be purchased at Gas Safe online, and the process is fast and easy. The cost isn't expensive either, as it costs only PS50-PS90 for the certificate, depending on the location you live in and the number of gas appliances checked.
It's not expensive
When you think about the cost of renting out a house it is likely that you don't think about the cost of gas safety inspections. This is a legal requirement that shouldn't be ignored. It will ensure that your tenants are secure and you can produce an authentic certificate should any issues arise. It can also help you avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Remember that landlords should maintain their plumbing, appliances and flues clean. Regular maintenance will prevent carbon monoxide poisoning which poses serious health danger. It is caused by defective gas cookers, fires, and boilers. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and tasteless gas, cannot be detected without specialized equipment. Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in every property and should be regularly checked. Gas appliances also need to be checked regularly.
The cost of a landlord gas safety check can vary slightly from engineer to engineer. You can find a good price by entering your postcode online and comparison shopping for estimates. Consider discounts if you are multiple properties to be examined. Some engineers offer discounts when you combine inspections.
Another aspect that influences the cost of a gas safety test is the location of your property. Landlords who live in metropolitan areas like London will have to pay more for a gas safety test than those who reside in less affluent regions or in remote regions.
Landlords must be aware that tenants might not allow access to conduct a security check. This is usually due to tenants' fear of being invaded of privacy or suspicion of snooping. But a well-written letter stating the reasons for access should convince them to allow you access.
If a tenant continues to refuse access, the landlord can take action to force the tenant to comply with the inspection. This includes serving an Section 21 Notice, although the court will decide if it is reasonable. The best way for the landlord do is contact the tenant to explain why a gas safety check is necessary.