A recent survey carried out by Shelter reveals people who privately rent their homes could be at risk from gas safety hazards, as one in 10 had not had an annual gas safety check organised by their landlord or letting agent.
Landlords have a legal duty to arrange maintenance for all gas appliances, pipework and flues, which they own and have provided for tenants use in their rented home. By law, a gas safety check must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer every 12 months and a copy of the Gas Safety Record should be given to the tenant.
Failing to get a gas safety check can put lives at risk – badly fitted and poorly maintained appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning – so it’s absolutely vital that renters know their rights and check they have a copy of a valid Gas Safety Record.
Meanwhile, landlords need to know that gas safety is not optional. A separate survey by Shelter found that as many as one in seven landlords (15%) are unaware of their legal obligation to arrange a gas safety check. Landlords who fail to fulfill their legal duty could face a fine or even a prison sentence.
If you’re a tenant follow Gas Safe Register’s top tips:
By law, your landlord must make sure all gas appliances and flues are maintained in a safe condition and must arrange for them to be safety checked by a registered engineer every 12 months.
Ask for a copy of your landlord’s current Gas Safety Record before you move in or after the annual safety check has been carried out.
Co-operate with your landlord and let a registered engineer into your home when a gas safety check or servicing has to be done.
Check that any engineer who comes to carry out work at your home is Gas Safe registered. You can do this by asking to see their Gas Safe Register ID card. Also check the back of the ID card to ensure the engineer is qualified for the work you need doing.
If you are worried about gas appliances or flues at your home, or are concerned that your landlord has not provided you with the relevant safety documents, contact the Health and Safety Executive’s gas safety advice line – 0800 300 363
For more information or to find a Gas Safe registered engineer follow us on Facebook, Contact 07968358883 or send us an e-mail through our Contact Form.
http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk
