If you own or rent a property with gas appliances, you have probably heard the term “gas safety certificate” before. But what exactly is it, who needs one, and what happens if you do not have one? This guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is a Gas Safety Certificate?
A gas safety certificate — officially known as a CP12 — is a document issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer after inspecting all the gas appliances and pipework in a property. It confirms that your gas boiler, cooker, fire and any other gas appliances are operating safely and in accordance with current regulations.
The certificate records:
- The date of inspection
- The address of the property
- Details of each gas appliance checked
- Whether each appliance is safe or unsafe
- The engineer’s Gas Safe registration number
- Any defects found and actions required
Think of it as an MOT for your gas appliances. It does not mean everything is in perfect condition, but it confirms that everything is safe to use.
Who Needs a Gas Safety Certificate?
Landlords — It Is a Legal Requirement
If you rent out a property with gas appliances, you are legally required to have a gas safety check carried out every 12 months. This applies to:
- Private landlords
- Housing associations
- Letting agents (on behalf of the landlord)
- Airbnb and holiday let owners (in many cases)
You must provide a copy of the certificate to existing tenants within 28 days of the check, and to new tenants before they move in. Records must be kept for at least two years.
The consequences of not complying are serious:
- Fines of up to £6,000
- Criminal prosecution
- Invalidation of your landlord insurance
- Potential manslaughter charges if a tenant is harmed
Homeowners — Recommended but Not Legally Required
If you own and live in your property, there is no legal requirement to have a gas safety certificate. However, it is strongly recommended. An annual check gives you peace of mind that your boiler, gas cooker and any other gas appliances are safe.
Carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty gas appliances kills around 30 people in the UK every year and hospitalises many more. A gas safety check could save your life.
Businesses
Commercial properties with gas appliances also require regular gas safety checks. The requirements vary depending on the type of business and the appliances involved, but the principle is the same: all gas equipment must be safe and properly maintained.
What Happens During a Gas Safety Check?
A qualified Gas Safe engineer will visit your property and typically spend 20 to 40 minutes checking each gas appliance. The inspection includes:
- Checking for gas leaks on pipework and connections
- Testing the boiler — flame, pressure, controls and flue
- Inspecting ventilation to ensure there is adequate air supply
- Checking the flue and chimney for blockages or damage
- Testing safety devices including overheat protection and pressure relief valves
- Examining gas cookers, fires and any other appliances
If everything passes, the engineer issues a CP12 certificate on the spot. If an appliance is found to be unsafe, they will classify it as “At Risk” or “Immediately Dangerous” and advise you on the next steps. In the case of an immediately dangerous appliance, they may disconnect it to protect you.
How Much Does a Gas Safety Certificate Cost?
In London, the typical cost for a gas safety certificate is:
- Single appliance (e.g. boiler only): £60 to £80
- Two appliances (e.g. boiler and cooker): £80 to £100
- Full property with multiple appliances: £100 to £130
At DRMB, we offer competitive, transparent pricing for gas safety certificates across SE London. We can also combine your gas safety check with an annual boiler service to save time and money.
Gas Safety Certificate vs Boiler Service — What Is the Difference?
This is a common question, and the answer matters:
- A gas safety certificate is a safety check. It confirms your gas appliances are safe to use. It does not involve maintenance or cleaning.
- A boiler service is a maintenance check. The engineer opens up the boiler, cleans components, checks efficiency and replaces worn parts. It keeps your boiler running well and extends its life.
For the best protection, you should have both done annually. Many engineers, including DRMB, offer combined packages that cover the gas safety certificate and boiler service in a single visit.
How to Check if Your Engineer Is Gas Safe Registered
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer can legally work on gas appliances in the UK. Before allowing anyone to carry out a gas safety check, ask to see their Gas Safe ID card. You can also verify their registration online at gassaferegister.co.uk.
Be wary of anyone who offers very cheap gas safety certificates — if they are not properly registered, the certificate is worthless and you could be putting your tenants or family at risk.
Book Your Gas Safety Certificate with DRMB
DRMB Plumbing and Heating provides fast, professional gas safety checks for landlords, letting agents and homeowners across SE London. We serve Lewisham, Blackheath, Greenwich, Eltham, Bromley, Catford, Croydon and surrounding areas.
Certificates are issued same day. Book online or call us on 0208 123 4807.