What is a Gas safety check, and why is it important?

An annual gas safety check is a comprehensive examination of all gas appliances, meters, associated pipework, and radiators within a property to ensure they are safe and in good working order. Registered Gas Safe engineers carry out this inspection with the required qualifications, skills, and experience to identify potential risks or faults that could cause harm to occupants. These checks are mandated by law and must be performed annually for rental properties by landlords to comply with legal obligations.

As a landlord, you must get an annual gas safety check by a Gas safe registered engineer to ensure you qualify for the CP-12 Gas safety certificate, ensuring your property is safe for your tenants. And if your boiler is eligible, getting a landlord boiler cover would be a great investment as it will include a CP-12 certificate, and you will also have peace of mind that if anything goes wrong, you will be covered.

Suppose you have arranged an annual gas safety check and wondering how the process will go through, what the engineer will be checking, how long a gas safety check takes, and what your responsibilities are. When you receive your Gas safety certificate, will the engineer look around or fix anything?

This article will answer all these questions, but before we move forward, it is essential to know whether your appliance requires a gas safety check.

How do I know whether my appliances require a gas safety check?

Although you shouldn’t wait for signs to get a safety check for your appliance and get it done annually, you should immediately contact a gas-safe engineer if you see the following signs:

1- Gas appliances not working properly

When a gas appliance is not working correctly, several precautionary measures should be taken to ensure the safety of individuals in the surrounding environment. Firstly, it is vital to turn off the gas supply immediately and extinguish any flames present. Next, adequate ventilation must be ensured by opening windows and doors to prevent the buildup of methane gas, which can lead to explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning.

It is also important not to attempt any repairs if you are unsure of what you are doing, as this could potentially cause more significant problems or endanger your safety. It is highly suggested that you seek professional assistance from a licensed gas technician with the equipment and expertise required to fix the issue safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance of appliances by professionals can identify any potential hazards beforehand, thereby reducing the risk of accidents occurring in the future.

2- Flame on the gas appliance is yellowish or orange

Ensuring that the flame on your gas appliance is crispy blue is essential. This signifies that the gas combustion is taking place efficiently, as the blue flame indicates complete combustion with a sufficient air-to-gas ratio.

On the other hand, a yellow or orange flame is a warning sign that something is amiss, meaning incomplete combustion and the potential for toxic carbon monoxide emissions. It could result from incorrect gas pressure or clogged burner ports affecting airflow to the flame. Therefore, observing and maintaining this blue flame also ensures your gas appliance’s safe and optimal functioning, avoiding potential hazards and prolonging its lifespan.

3- Black/brown marks on or around the appliance

Black or brown marks on or around the appliance can indicate overheating. These marks could be caused by a buildup of grease and grime, which can become flammable if not cleaned regularly.

Additionally, these marks could result from damaged insulation surrounding electrical components that have allowed heat to escape, resulting in scorching on the appliance’s surface. It is important to address these marks promptly to prevent fire hazards and ensure the appliance remains safe.

4- Pilot light getting off

When facing the issue of a continually extinguished boiler pilot light, it is essential to consider several possible causes. The most common reasons could be faulty thermocouples or dirty burners restricting gas flow.

A malfunctioning safety switch may lead to an automatic shut-off of the pilot light or low gas pressure. Ignition problems may also arise when attempting to start the heating system, which could further increase safety concerns within the household. It is vital to contact a professional HVAC technician who can promptly diagnose and fix any potential issues with the boiler system.

5- Increased condensation

Increased condensation inside the windows can cause gas safety concerns, as it is often a sign that the house has poor ventilation. Excess moisture in the air can react with gas appliances such as boilers and stoves to create harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide. This can lead to serious health problems, such as poisoning or even death.

It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation by installing vents or extractor fans venting out moisture-rich air, especially in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms where gas-powered equipment is used. Regularly maintaining gas appliances and having them inspected by qualified professionals can also minimise the risk of accidents caused by increased condensation in the windows. Timely detection of any ventilation-related issues and proactively addressing them can ensure safe living environments for occupants around the clock.

How long does a gas safety check take and for how long the certificate will last?

The gas safety check process will last usually around 30 to 45 minutes, maybe less or maybe more depending upon your property. After that, you will receive the certificate, which will last up to 12 months.

What will the engineer be checking?

The certified Gas Safe Registered engineer will check:

• All gas appliances

• The gas supplies

• The gas fire (if you have one in your home)

• The gas cooker

• The heating and hot water (boiler)

• All radiators

• All smoke alarms

The engineer will service:

• The appliance that provides the main source of heating and water

• The gas fire (if you have one installed on your property)

The engineer will fix the following:

• Any minor issues that will not take a significant amount of time

• Any heating-related problems

The engineer will also:

• Inspect your loft and cellar areas.

• Arrange for any follow-up service visits that are necessary to complete the inspection.

• Fill out the certificate and ask you to sign an electronic version. A hard copy of the certificate will last up to 12 months. The certificate will be sent in the post to you within 28 days of the inspection.

• Leave a satisfaction survey card for you to complete.

How to be prepared for a Gas safety check?

If you are a landlord and have organised yourself correctly by taking these simple steps, the whole process will be smooth and satisfactory from start to finish.

1. Tidy your home

It may seem obvious, but some people are more organised than others. By tidying your home, especially rooms where gas appliances are present, you are helping the engineer work more efficiently and in a safer environment.

2. Turn off the boiler

For the engineer to properly inspect your boiler, it is advisable to turn it off two hours before they arrive.

3. Keep a record of your inventory

You can make a record of all the gas appliances that are on the property, which may help speed the process along. The engineer will still need to check and make their list as a legal requirement, just in case you forget to mention any.

4. Note anything you may have noticed

No matter how small, it is important to write down any gas or pipe-related issues you may have. When the engineer arrives, you can inform them so they can identify a solution.

5. Keep hold of appliance manufacturers’ instructions

Always keep booklets or leaflets containing guides or instructions for your gas appliances. You can then dig these out and have them ready for your appointment with the engineer. He or she may be able to solve a problem quicker with the help of relevant manufacturer’s documentation that comes with a particular appliance.

6. Have your Tenancy Agreement handy

If you are a landlord and the engineer is coming around to the tenant’s property, it may be the case that they refuse your entry. The arrangement that you agreed upon with your tenant should specify that you are permitted to access the property for any maintenance or safety checks that need to be carried out. And that you have issued a notice to the tenant stating that you will need access (this should be a written procedure as evidence that you have taken the correct steps).

7. Make sure an adult is present

A responsible adult over 16 needs to be at the property while the engineer performs their checks.

Take the hassle out of getting your Gas Safety/CP12 Certificate with our annual boiler service. A friendly and qualified Gas Safe Registered engineer can issue you your certificate, check your appliances, and provide valuable gas safety information.

Conclusion

Now you know why an annual gas safety certificate is important, how the process is performed, and how to stay prepared. Additionally, click here to understand the difference between a gas safety record and a gas safety certificate. As a landlord, if you want an annual gas safety check for your property, contact 24|7 Home Rescue at 0345 3192 247.

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