Landlords have specific legal responsibilities to their tenants when it comes to gas safety. Here’s some more information to make sure you’re in the know.
Legal obligations
The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 outlines a landlord’s duty to make sure that the gas appliances, fittings and flues provided for tenants in a rental property are safe.
Landlord's responsibilities
If you let a property equipped with gas appliances you have three main responsibilities:
1. Maintenance
Pipework, appliances and flues must be kept in a safe condition. Gas appliances should be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If these aren’t available, it’s recommended that they’re serviced annually unless advised otherwise by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
2. Gas safety checks
A 12 monthly gas safety check must be carried out on every gas appliance/flue. This check will make sure gas fittings and appliances are safe to use.
3. Record
A record of the annual gas safety check must be provided to your tenant within 28 days of the check being completed, or to new tenants before they move in. Landlords must keep copies of the gas safety record for two years.
All installation, maintenance and safety checks need to be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
If a tenant has their own gas appliance that you’ve not provided, then you’re responsible for the maintenance of the gas pipework, but not for the actual appliance.
You should also make sure your tenants know where to turn off the gas and what to do in the event of an emergency.
You have to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to ensure this work is carried out. This may involve giving written notice to a tenant requesting access, and explaining the reason. Keep a record of any action, in case a tenant refuses access and you have to demonstrate what steps have been taken.
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