Welcome back to another episode of Padarn Property blogs! This week we’ll be discussing gas safety certificates and the legal requirements for landlords.

If you’re a landlord or homeowner in Wales, understanding gas safety certificates is crucial to keeping your property safe and compliant. Gas appliances, when poorly maintained, can pose serious risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks. That’s why ensuring your property meets legal safety requirements isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting lives.

What Is a Gas Safety Certificate?

A Gas Safety Certificate, also known as a CP12 certificate, is an official document that confirms a registered Gas Safe engineer has inspected your property’s gas appliances, flues, and pipework. The certificate provides details of any defects, repairs needed, or confirmation that everything is in safe working order.

Who Needs a Gas Safety Certificate?

In Wales, landlords are legally required to obtain an annual Gas Safety Certificate for any property they rent out. This applies to houses, flats, and HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation). If you’re a homeowner living in your own property, you don’t legally need a certificate—but it’s still highly recommended to schedule regular gas safety checks to protect yourself and your family.

What Does a Gas Safety Check Involve?

A qualified Gas Safe engineer will carry out a series of inspections, which typically include:

• Checking the condition of gas appliances (boilers, cookers, and fires)

• Ensuring flues and chimneys are working correctly

• Testing gas pipework for leaks

• Verifying that safety devices are operating properly

• Checking for signs of carbon monoxide

How Do You Obtain a Gas Safety Certificate?

To get a Gas Safety Certificate, you need to hire a Gas Safe registered engineer. You can find one by searching the Gas Safe Register website. Once the inspection is complete, the engineer will issue a certificate, which must be kept for at least two years. If any repairs are needed, they should be carried out as soon as possible to ensure compliance.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Landlords?

Landlords in Wales must:

• Arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to conduct an inspection every 12 months.

• Provide tenants with a copy of the latest Gas Safety Certificate within 28 days of the check.

• Give new tenants a copy of the certificate before they move in.

• Keep records of all gas safety inspections for at least two years.

• Ensure any issues identified in the inspection are repaired promptly.

Failure to comply with gas safety regulations can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines and, in serious cases, imprisonment. Additionally, landlords who neglect gas safety obligations may find their insurance policies invalidated.

What Are the Risks of Not Having a Gas Safety Certificate?

Without a Gas Safety Certificate, tenants and homeowners could be at serious risk of:

• Carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Gas leaks leading to explosions or fires.

• Appliance malfunctions.

For landlords, non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions, tenant disputes, and reputational damage.

The Impact of Rent Smart Wales

Rent Smart Wales, the national licensing authority for landlords and letting agents, requires landlords to uphold safety standards, including gas safety compliance. Failure to provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate could lead to enforcement actions, including penalties and potential loss of the right to rent out a property.

How Much Does a Gas Safety Certificate Cost?

The cost of obtaining a Gas Safety Certificate varies depending on the size of the property and the number of appliances being checked. On average, prices in Wales range from £60 to £150. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and legal compliance.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring gas safety in your property isn’t just a legal necessity—it’s a responsibility. Whether you’re a landlord renting out multiple properties or a homeowner looking to protect your family, regular gas safety checks can save lives. Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer, keep your records up to date, and take immediate action if any repairs are required.

By staying informed and proactive, you’ll not only meet legal requirements but also create a safe and secure environment for everyone who steps through your door.

If you have any questions or need recommendations for Gas Safe engineers, feel free to contact us at any time!

Until next time, happy house hunting!

Ben McEvoy