What’s Included in a Gas Safety Check?

A gas safety check is a legal requirement for landlords in the UK. A Gas Safe registered engineer will need to visit your property to conduct the inspection and let you know whether your appliances and systems are safe for use. If you’re a new landlord or unsure what’s included in a gas safety check, our engineers will run you through the process in this quick guide.

What is a gas safety check (CP12)?

A gas safety check is a thorough inspection of a rental property’s gas appliances and systems. Also known as a CP12, these are a legal requirement to ensure tenants are safe.

• The full inspection includes the following:
• Checking all appliances for gas tightness.
• Checking the standing and working pressure.
• Checking the gas rate against the manufacturer’s data plate.
• Making sure there is satisfactory ventilation where necessary.
• Ensuring safety devices are functioning.
• Checking the physical stability and effectiveness of brackets where appropriate.
• Testing the flue flow to ensure there are no blockages.
• Investigating any evidence of unsafe operation.

At the end of the inspection, you’ll be issued a gas safety record showing your property is gas safe. It’s your job to give a copy of this to your tenants and keep it safe if you need evidence for insurance purposes.

Can’t I just get a boiler service?

A boiler service differs from a gas safety check. Most importantly, a gas safety inspection is a legal requirement, whereas a boiler service is not. This means it’s not adequate to only have a boiler service; you need a full gas safety inspection annually.

An annual boiler service checks that the boiler is working correctly by checking individual boiler parts. Think of this as a tune-up to keep your boiler running efficiently.

On the other hand, a gas safety check ensures all gas appliances are running safely.

Although a boiler service isn’t a legal requirement for landlords, we do recommend getting one annually to keep the boiler functioning. This can prevent costly breakdowns and will extend the life of the boiler.

How long does a gas safety check take?

A thorough gas safety check usually takes about an hour for a normal domestic property. However, if issues are found, and repairs are needed, it can take longer.

The size of your property and the number of gas appliances will affect the time it takes to complete the check. For example, a large commercial property will take significantly longer than a standard three-bed home.

Book a gas safety check in Eastbourne

If you’re a landlord in Eastbourne, call our team at Abacus Flame to book your gas safety inspection today. We’ll arrange a time that suits you and your tenants and carry out a thorough check on your property.

As a Gas Safe registered company, we are approved to inspect domestic and commercial properties and can provide gas safety certificates. Call us today to book your appointment: 01323 648 083