If you rent out a property with gas appliances, you have a legal obligation to ensure those appliances are safe. This guide covers everything landlords need to know about gas safety checks, CP12 certificates, and staying compliant with UK law.
What Is a CP12 Certificate?
A CP12 — formally known as a Landlord Gas Safety Record — is the certificate issued after a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer has inspected all gas appliances, fittings, and flues in a rental property. It confirms that everything is safe and working correctly.
Your Legal Obligations
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must:
- Have all gas appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Keep records of each safety check for at least two years
- Provide a copy of the gas safety record to existing tenants within 28 days of the check
- Provide a copy to new tenants before they move in
What Gets Checked?
During a landlord gas safety check, the engineer will inspect:
- All gas appliances (boilers, cookers, fires)
- Gas pipework and fittings
- Flues and ventilation
- Safety devices and controls
- Gas pressure and flow rates
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with gas safety regulations is a criminal offence. Penalties include:
- Fines — potentially unlimited
- Imprisonment — up to six months
- Invalidated insurance — your landlord insurance may not cover claims
- Civil liability — you could be sued for damages if a tenant is harmed
Book Your Landlord Gas Safety Check
Don’t risk your tenants’ safety or your legal standing. Contact British Gas Alliance to arrange your annual gas safety inspection and CP12 certification.