A gas safety certificate is essential for ensuring that a property is safe for tenants or homeowners. In the UK, this document, known as the CP12 certificate, is legally required for landlords and property owners to confirm that gas appliances, flues, and associated pipework in their properties are safe and comply with safety standards. But how long does a gas safety certificate last, and when should you renew it? In this guide, we’ll answer these questions and provide everything you need to know about gas safety certificates in the UK.

Contents hide

1 Why is a Gas Certificate Required?

2 How Long Does a Gas Safety Certificate Last?

2.1 Get The Gas Safety Certificate Now

3 When Should You Renew a Gas Safety Certificate?

4 Are Homeowners Required to Have a Gas Safety Certificate?

5 What Does a Gas Safety Inspection Involve?

6 What Happens if a Landlord Fails to Renew It?

7 How Much Does It Cost?

8 Can a Tenant Request a Gas Safety Certificate?

9 In Closing

Why is a Gas Certificate Required?

For landlords, a gas safety certificate isn’t just recommended—it’s a legal obligation under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. All rental properties must have up-to-date gas safety certificates to legally rent to tenants. Failing to do so can lead to significant fines or even imprisonment.

How Long Does a Gas Safety Certificate Last?

In the UK, a gas safety certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. This means that landlords need to ensure they schedule annual inspections with a Gas Safe registered engineer to keep the certificate current. Even though the certificate is valid for a year, landlords must retain records of gas safety checks for at least two years.

When Should You Renew a Gas Safety Certificate?

Landlords should schedule an annual inspection and renewal before the certificate expires to remain compliant with UK law. It’s wise to book an inspection a few weeks before the current certificate’s expiration date to allow time for any necessary repairs or updates.

If a landlord renews the certificate within the last two months of the existing certificate’s validity, the new certificate will be dated to expire 12 months from the previous expiration date, providing a seamless transition and no loss of coverage.

Are Homeowners Required to Have a Gas Safety Certificate?

While it is legally mandatory for landlords to obtain a gas safety certificate annually, homeowners in the UK are not legally required to have one. However, it’s still a good practice for homeowners to get their gas appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure their safety. This is particularly recommended if you have older appliances or have noticed any signs of malfunction.

What Does a Gas Safety Inspection Involve?

During a gas safety check, the Gas Safe registered engineer will inspect:

• Gas appliances (e.g., boilers, cookers, and fires) to ensure they operate safely.
• The pressure of the gas being supplied to appliances.
• Flues and ventilation to make sure they are working correctly and that there is no risk of harmful gases accumulating.
• Pipework to check for any leaks or potential hazards.

If all aspects of the inspection meet safety standards, the engineer will issue a CP12 certificate, confirming that the property is safe.

What Happens if a Landlord Fails to Renew It?

Failing to renew a gas safety certificate in a rental property has serious consequences. Landlords could face:

Legal Action: Non-compliance can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment. Tenants also have the right to report landlords who fail to provide valid gas safety certificates.

Invalidated Insurance: Without a valid gas safety certificate, a landlord’s insurance policy may become void. This could leave them unprotected in the event of gas-related incidents or damages.

Eviction Difficulties: If a landlord tries to evict a tenant, they must provide a valid gas safety certificate. Without it, landlords may face difficulties with legal proceedings.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of obtaining a gas safety certificate in the UK varies depending on the size of the property and the number of gas appliances. On average, a gas safety inspection costs between £60 and £100. Some landlords choose to combine this with an annual boiler service, which may increase the price but is a convenient option for ensuring all gas appliances are checked.

Can a Tenant Request a Gas Safety Certificate?

Yes, tenants have the right to request a copy of the gas safety certificate. Landlords must provide it to tenants at the beginning of their tenancy and ensure it remains up-to-date throughout their stay. If a tenant asks for the certificate during their tenancy, the landlord should provide a copy within 28 days.

In Closing

A gas safety certificate is not just a legal obligation for landlords in the UK but a crucial document that ensures the safety of tenants and properties. Knowing how long a gas safety certificate lasts—12 months—helps landlords stay compliant and avoid potential legal issues. Scheduling regular checks and renewals with a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer is the best way to maintain gas safety and peace of mind.

Further Reading