Carbon monoxide poisoning can be caused by gas appliances and flues, which have not been properly installed or maintained. Carbon monoxide can be deadly so it is extremely important that landlords follow the Gas Safety Regulations to reduce the likelihood of harm to their tenants.
What are the regulations about gas safety in rented properties?
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, every landlord must ensure that gas appliances and flues they provide for their tenant to use are maintained in a safe condition. If an agent manages the property, the landlord must be clear as to who is responsible for the maintenance of gas appliances and the agreement must be put in writing.
The regulations state that landlords must carry out an annual gas safety check on installations, appliances and flues within rented accommodation. They must keep written records of all safety checks and must make copies available to tenants. Landlords must also provide tenants with enough information for the safe use of all gas appliances, especially boilers.
If the tenants own a gas appliance, they are responsible for its maintenance. The landlord is, however, still responsible for the maintenance of its installation pipe work.
If the law is broken the Health and Safety Executive are responsible for taking further enforcement action.
What should homeowners do to ensure gas safety in their homes?
We recommend that homeowners also have annual gas safety checks carried out on the installation, appliances and flues in their home to ensure their family’s health and safety.
Who should do the gas safety check and any following works?
Any professional contractor will provide a gas inspection certificate after the check and will inform you of any installations/appliances found to be unsafe. To search for a local installer/plumber go to the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Trader Register, Trader Scheme.
Only businesses registered with the Gas Safe Register are allowed to carry out installation and maintenance of gas appliances so always ask to see the contractor’s gas safe certificate and check their details against the Gas Safe Register.