Why Landlords Should Keep Their Gas Safety Certificates Up to Date
Landlords are responsible for making sure that all gas appliances comply with the rules and regulations and are safe. Infractions could result in fines and compromise the security of tenants.
CP12 is an abbreviation for CORGI Proforma 12. Also known as a Gas Safety Certificate, or Landlord's Gas Safety Records.
It is a legal requirement to have your gas pipework as well as appliances and flues tested annually. Some landlords are unable to gain access to their properties, and are compelled to take on a shorter inspection period.
It's a requirement by law
Whether you're a landlord with one property or an investor with a portfolio of rental properties, it's essential to keep your gas safety certificates current. A fine or even a criminal prosecution could result from failing to comply. There are other practical advantages for having your gas appliances inspected and a valid certificate displayed at every location.
A gas safety certificate contains details such as the date of inspection the address of the building inspected, the details of each appliance that was inspected with their current status, as well as the name and number of the engineer who performed the inspection. It also identifies appliances that are considered to be unsafe for use and gives suggestions for how to fix the fault. If an engineer discovers unsafe appliances, they'll issue an "ID" code. If the appliance is deemed to be at risk, but not immediately dangerous it will receive a "AR" code.
Tenants can sometimes refuse access for a gas safety check, and this is where the relationship between landlord and tenant could start to become problematic. Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations of 1988 require landlords to take all reasonable measures to ensure compliance. This means making multiple attempts to conduct the checks and then writing to the tenant informing them that this is a legal requirement to ensure their own security. It's also recommended to include arrangements for access in the Tenancy agreement.
Landlords must be sure to display a copy gas safety certificate in each property. This will stop tenants from moving into properties with unsafe gas appliances, and will allow prospective tenants to look up the history of safety checks. A gas safety certificate can also help you establish an image of an honest landlord. This will help you attract more tenants.
In addition to ensuring that your gas equipment is safe, having an annual service contract with a Gas Safe Registered Engineer will save your time and money in the long run. For instance, many gas companies offer a reduced price on annual Gas Safety Certificates. You need to shop for the lowest price.
It's a great idea
As an owner, it is your duty to ensure the safety of any gas appliances in your property. Regular inspections by a certified Gas Safe engineer are the most effective way to spot and correct any issues before they become more serious and potentially dangerous for tenants. In addition regular inspections can help to keep gas boilers and other equipment in good condition, so they're more likely to last longer.
Landlords are required by law to have a valid Gas Safety Certificate for each of the gas appliances that are installed in their homes. Without these certificates, landlords could face massive fines and may discover that their appliances are unsafe to use for tenants. It's simple to get a Gas Safety Certificate by hiring an engineer and making an appointment.
A gas inspection every year is the minimum requirement under the Gas Safety Regulations, but it's recommended to conduct more frequent inspections particularly if your home has been left empty for a long period of time. This is because appliances could be tampered with or the gas supply may have been shut off while the property is unoccupied.
When it comes to re-letting your property, it's important to have a current gas safety report prior to handing over the keys to the new tenants. A re-inspection is also necessary in the event that the older appliances have been used by the tenants or any work has been done on the gas system since your last inspection.
Before any inspection, it's recommended to talk to your tenant and ask them to give access to the property. If they are reluctant, you can send an unambiguously written letter that explains the reasons for access and what the gas safety inspections will involve. If they still refuse, you can start the eviction process with a section 21 notice.
Safety of your gas appliances is the top priority. You must have a Gas Safety Certificate on all of your gas appliances. You may lose your deposit and face legal action from the local council or Health and Safety Executive if you do not. To avoid this, it's always a good idea to have regular inspections conducted by a qualified Gas Safe engineer and make sure that your Gas Safety Certificate is up to current.
It's a hassle
Some aren't happy with the gas safety inspections conducted by landlords. It's not only a legal requirement but it also makes good sense to make sure tenants are using appliances that have been checked by professionals. If something goes wrong, it could result in a gas-hazard situation that would be disastrous for anyone living in or within the building.
But some tenants refuse to let these inspections in, which is quite understandable. Some tenants might feel it's an invasion of privacy, or think that the inspection is a ploy to spy or track them. But landlords should keep in mind that they are legally obliged to carry out these inspections, and can only do this if the tenants grant them access to their property.
Being faced with angry tenants can be frustrating particularly for landlords who own multiple properties. However, it's important for landlords to keep in mind that if they don't obtain their gas safety certification and are fined, they'll face heavy penalties and the tenants could not be allowed to move in until the issue has been dealt with.
Keep copies of the gas certificate for your landlord in case you have to ever repossess the property. how much for landlords gas safety certificate mkgassafety might not be able to prove that they've conducted the correct inspections if the previous tenants didn't keep copies therefore it's worthwhile to keep the certificate in case.
The Health and Safety Executive can charge a landlord with a criminal offense if they do not provide their tenants with the original certificate of gas safety within 28 days after an inspection. If you are a tenant then you should request a copy of the gas safety certificate from your landlord as soon as you can.
Landlords must 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 simple and simple. The cost isn't expensive either - it costs just PS50-PS90 to get the certificate, dependent on the location you live in and the number of gas appliances tested.
It's affordable
Most people don't think of gas safety checks when you are considering the costs of renting a property. Yet it is an obligation that is legally required and should not be omitted. It will ensure your tenants are safe and you are able to provide an official certificate in the event that any issues arise. It also helps you avoid costly repairs.
Be aware that landlords must maintain their plumbing, appliances and flues in good condition. Regular maintenance will help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning which is an extremely dangerous health risk. It is caused by defective gas cookers, fires, and boilers. Carbon monoxide is a colorless gas, tasteless and odourless that can't be detected without the use of specialist equipment. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every house and checked regularly. Gas appliances should also be inspected.
The cost of a landlord's gas safety test may vary slightly depending on the specialist. However, you can often find a good price online by entering your postcode and comparing quotes. It's important to inquire about discounts if you have multiple properties that must be checked. Some engineers offer discounts if you combine inspections.
The location of your home is a further factor that may affect the cost of a safety inspection. Landlords who live in urban areas such as London will have to pay more for a gas safety inspection than those who reside in less well-off regions or remote areas.
Landlords should be aware that certain tenants might not allow access for the check. This is typically due to the fear of a breach of their privacy or suspicion that it's a ploy to track them. A carefully composed note describing your motives for gaining access to their home should convince them to allow you access.
If the tenant refuses to allow the inspection, the landlord may take actions. This includes serving a Section 21 Notice, although the court will decide whether the notice is reasonable. The most effective thing for the landlord to do is to communicate with the tenant to explain why a gas safety check is necessary.