September 12, 2022

What Is A Gas Safe Certificate, and Why Is It Important?

Feature image

A Gas Safe Certificate, Gas Safety Certificate, or Gas Safety Record are all names for an official document provided by a registered engineer after conducting a gas safety check on a residential or commercial property.

It is an essential legal document that contains details about the gas inspection and information about the assigned engineer, the landlord, and the property. In the United Kingdom, landlords renting their properties to tenants must renew their gas safety certificate yearly.

The Types of Gas Safe Certificates

Some people let their homes while others lease their shops or commercial plazas. Do they both need to get the same gas certificate? No!

There are three main types of Gas Safe Certificates; these are:

  • Residential or Domestic Gas Safety Certificates
  • Commercial Gas Safety Certificates
  • New Build Gas Safety Certificates

Don't be confused by the names! The only difference is that each certificate is given according to the type of property being inspected. Suppose you are a landlord letting a residential building, for example, a house, studio, condo, lake house, flat, or any other facility where people have set up a home. In that case, you need to get a domestic or residential certificate.

On the other hand, if you are a landlord letting a commercial building, such as a shop, mall, warehouse, storage facility, etc., you will need to obtain a commercial certificate. Finally, if your property is under construction, you will need a new build gas certificate

Why Do You Need a Gas Safe Certificate?

Here are the reasons why you need a gas certificate:

1.Ensure The Safety Of Your Tenant

A Gas Safe Certificate is vital for landlords to ensure the safety of their tenants and their property. Gas is one of the most significant sources of accidents worldwide, so a professional must inspect all the gas appliances installed within a property annually.

2.Gas Certificates are a Legal Requirement

In the UK, a landlord is legally responsible for the gas safety of the property they are letting. Although tenants are expected to cooperate in the gas safety process, the responsibility cannot be transferred to them under any circumstances.

3.Avoid Fines and Jail Time

Not having a Gas Safety Record can result in legal repercussions. According to the Gas Safety Regulations 1998, all landlords in the United Kingdom must get a gas safety check every year and obtain a valid gas certificate. Otherwise, they will face heavy fines and even jail time.

Landlords who don't get Gas Safety Certificates are penalized. They can be fined as much as £5000. Furthermore, if a gas-related incident occurs on the property, the landlord might face imprisonment of up to 6 months.

4.A Copy Of The Gas Certificate is Required For A Valid Rent Agreement

Moreover, if landowners are renting out their property, they must provide a copy of the certificate to their tenants within 28 days of moving into the property. Even while selling a house, owners must have legitimate certification to prove the Safety of their gas appliances.

If a landlord refuses to provide a copy of the certificate after one has been requested, the tenants can file a complaint or report the landlord to the Health and Safety Execute(HSE). This gives the HSE permission to prosecute the landlord

How Do I Get A Gas Safety Certificate in the UK?.

Obtaining a Gas Safety Record is not very difficult. Here is what you need to do:

  • Schedule an appointment with a Gas Sage Register authorized company that provides gas safety checks and certificates.
  • Once the appointment is scheduled, the company will send a registered engineer to inspect your property. These engineers inspect the gas appliances and fittings within the property to ensure everything is in order. In addition, the engineer also checks the pressure of the gas, the ventilation system, and gas safety and alarm devices.
  • The outcome of this inspection is mentioned on the certificate, which is signed by the engineer and given to the landlord within 48 hours of the examination. If a Gas Safety Check fails, the appliances will be marked as Not to Current Standards (NCS), Immediately Dangerous (ID), or At Risk (AR). While those under NCS may not need an immediate replacement, those under ID and AR can not be used without being repaired or replaced.

Who Performs the Gas Safety Check?

Gas Safe Engineers are specifically trained to perform Gas Safety Checks, so only registered individuals are eligible to perform this check. Landlords should always take a look at the engineer's Gas Safe ID Card before the inspection begins because this allows them to reconfirm the identity and the legitimacy of the engineer.

The ID includes not only personal information but also a hologram that proves that the engineer has been registered.

These are valid for up to 12 months, and it is preferable that an appointment is scheduled before the certificates expire.

How Much Does the Gas Safe Certificate Cost?

The Gas Certificate cost is usually around £34 – £150, but the final price depends on various factors, including the number of properties, their type, and location. Furthermore, the number of appliances will also have an effect.

Lastly, each gas certificate provider may have its own price policies; some may provide bundle pricing, while others offer discounts for multiple properties. Moreover, some may charge extra if you need a gas certificate within 24 hours. Therefore, conduct thorough research on the certificate providers in your area and choose a service that caters to your specifications.

Conclusion – What Is A Gas Safe Certificate, and Why Is It Important?

Having a Gas Safe Certificate is a legal requirement, and all landlords should comply with this for their betterment and that of their tenants. Getting a certificate is straightforward; if you choose a good company , they even assist you throughout the process.

Now that you know everything about gas certificates, don't delay it! Get one today to keep your property and tenants safe, avoid fines and jail time, and renew your rental agreements.

Get An Instant Quote

Fill the required information to order an gas safety certificate instantly.

Popular Posts

November 29, 2022
What Does A Gas Safety Check Involve?

Gas engineers perform a gas safety check to ensure your gas appliances are safe. Read to learn what more you can expect from the gas safety check.

December 19, 2022
What Happens If You Don't Have A Gas Safety Certificate?

Are you a landlord who wants to know what happens if you don't have a gas safety certificate? Then, you need to give our post a read.

August 7, 2023
What Is The Fine For Not Having A Gas Safety Certificate?

Learn about the importance of gas safety certificates for landlords and the legal consequences of not having a valid certificate.

October 26, 2023
How Do I Check If I Have A Gas Safety Certificate?

Are you curious about your Gas Safety Certificate? With these simple steps, learn how to check its status and ensure your peace of mind.

May 23, 2023
Can I Sue My Landlord For No Gas Safety Check?

Every landlord in the UK is legally bound to follow gas safety regulations as per the Gas Safety (Installations and Use) Regulations 1998.

November 9, 2023
Why Is My Boiler Making A Loud Vibrating Noise?

Find out why your boiler is vibrating loudly. Explore causes, troubleshooting tips, and the importance of prompt repairs for a quiet and efficient heating system at home.

Contact Us

Fill out the following enquiry form and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Verified Service Provided

All of our property professionals are members of the relevant trade accreditation scheme.