If you rent out a property with gas appliances, you have a legal duty to keep your tenants safe. A big part of that is the annual gas safety check. This guide covers what Norfolk landlords need to know.
What is a landlord gas safety certificate?
A landlord gas safety certificate, often called a CP12 or Landlord Gas Safety Record, confirms that the gas appliances, fittings and flues in your rental property have been checked and are safe to use. The check must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
What does the law require?
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must:
- Have a gas safety check carried out on every gas appliance and flue they provideย every 12 months
- Give a copy of the record to existing tenantsย within 28 daysย of the check
- Give a copy to new tenantsย before they move in
- Keep a copy of each record forย at least two years
- Make sure gas appliances and pipework are properly maintained
Failing to meet these duties is a criminal offence and can lead to large fines or even imprisonment. More importantly, it puts your tenants at risk.
What does the check include?
During a landlord gas safety check, the engineer will:
- Check that gas appliances are burning correctly and safely
- Test that flues and chimneys are clear and working
- Make sure there’s enough ventilation
- Test safety devices on each appliance
- Check for gas leaks (tightness test)
- Record any faults and the action needed
Appliances owned by the tenant aren’t covered, but the flues and pipework connected to them are.
Can I get the check done early?
Yes. You can have the check carried out up to two months before the current certificate expires and keep the original expiry date. This makes it easier to arrange access with tenants without shortening your 12-month cycle.
Is a gas safety check the same as a boiler service?
No. A gas safety check confirms appliances are safe to use, while a service is a more detailed maintenance visit that keeps the boiler running efficiently. Many landlords book both at the same time to save on call-outs. Ask us about combining them.
Other safety duties to remember
- Fit a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers)
- Fit a smoke alarm on every storey used as living space
- Arrange an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every five years
Book your landlord gas safety check
Carters Heating Services carries out landlord gas safety checks across Norwich and Norfolk. Our engineers are Gas Safe registered (No. 546048), and we can deal directly with your tenants to arrange access.
Find out more about our landlord gas safety certificates, or call 01603 746 168 to book.
