Quick answer
Landlords in England must arrange a gas safety check every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer for every gas appliance, fitting and flue they provide. They must give existing tenants a copy of the gas safety record within 28 days of the check, give new tenants a copy before they move in, keep records for at least 2 years, and carry out any repairs the engineer identifies. Failing to do so is a criminal offence.
- Annual check, every 12 months.
- Only a Gas Safe registered engineer can do it.
- Copy to existing tenants within 28 days, new tenants before move in.
- Keep records for at least 2 years.
- Breaches can be prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive.
What the gas safety check covers
The duty comes from the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. It covers gas appliances and flues the landlord provides, such as boilers, gas fires, gas hobs and ovens, and the pipework that serves them. Appliances the tenant owns and brings themselves are the tenant's responsibility, although the landlord remains responsible for the pipework.
The engineer checks that appliances are safely installed, burn gas correctly, have adequate ventilation, and that flues safely remove combustion products. Safety devices are checked to make sure they work.
Timing: the 12 month rule
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| How often | At least every 12 months |
| Flexibility | A check done in the 2 months before the due date can keep the original anniversary date |
| New tenants | Copy of the current record before they move in |
| Existing tenants | Copy within 28 days of each check |
| Records | Kept for at least 2 years |
| Short lets under 28 days | The record can be displayed prominently in the property |
Choosing a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Use the Gas Safe Register website to confirm the engineer and their business are registered.
- Check their ID card on the day. It shows the types of gas work they are qualified to do.
- Make sure they are qualified for each appliance type in the property, for example boilers and cookers.
- Ask for the record to be issued on the day, including any defects and recommended actions.
Getting access to carry out the check
Landlords should give tenants reasonable written notice, usually at least 24 hours, and arrange a convenient time. If a tenant refuses access, landlords must show they took 'all reasonable steps'. Keep a record of every attempt, including letters, emails and dates, and offer alternative times. Do not enter without permission except in an emergency.
Tenants should allow access for safety checks. They protect everyone in the home.
If the engineer finds a problem
- Immediately dangerous: the engineer will disconnect the appliance with the tenant's permission and label it. It must not be used until repaired.
- At risk: the engineer may turn it off and advise repair. Arrange repair promptly.
- Not to current standards: not dangerous now, but worth planning an upgrade.
Landlords must make sure repairs are carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer and keep records of the work.
Gas safety in HMOs and when using agents
In an HMO, the gas duty covers appliances in shared areas and in tenants' rooms if the landlord provides them. Councils licensing an HMO usually ask to see the gas safety record. If an agent manages the property, the contract should say who arranges the annual check. Landlords remain responsible if it is not done, so ask for a copy every year.
Gas safety tips for tenants
- Ask for the gas safety record before you move in.
- Know where the gas emergency control valve is.
- Test the carbon monoxide alarm regularly.
- Do not block vents or flues.
- If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999, open windows and do not use switches or flames.
Common questions
Is a gas safety certificate a legal requirement for landlords?
Yes. If the property has gas appliances or fittings the landlord provides, an annual gas safety check and record are required by law.
What is a CP12?
CP12 is a common name for the landlord gas safety record, from the old CORGI form number.
Who pays for the gas safety check?
The landlord. It cannot be charged to the tenant.
Can I rent a property without a gas safety certificate?
No, if there is a gas supply and landlord appliances or fittings. Tenants must receive a current record before moving in.
Does a property with no gas need a certificate?
No. If there is no gas supply, no gas safety record is needed, but electrical safety duties still apply.
Official sources
We check these pages against official GOV.UK guidance. This page is general information for England, not legal advice for your situation.
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