Why Every Landlord in the UK Needs a Gas Safety Check and Certificate – A Complete Guide by HMO Hori
If you are renting out a property in the UK, and especially if you are renting it out in the House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) sector, there is rarely any chance to cut corners, especially in relation to the safety of tenants. Property owners have a responsibility to follow legal obligations, and there is one obligation that is paramount: the gas safety check and certificate.
In this article, we will explain what a gas safety check is, the legal requirement for a gas safety check, the legal frequency for a gas safety check, and why working with a reliable provider like HMO Horizon can save headaches and costs through potential fine avoidance.
What Is a Gas Safety Check and Certificate?
A gas safety check is an inspection carried out by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. It’s a legal requirement for all landlords in the UK who rent out properties with gas appliances—this includes cookers, boilers, fires, and water heaters.
The outcome of this inspection is recorded in a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12), which confirms that all gas installations and appliances are safe for use.
Why Is It So Important?
First and foremost, a gas safety check is about protecting lives. Faulty gas appliances can leak carbon monoxide—a deadly, odourless gas that can be fatal even in small doses. A gas safety check ensures everything is working safely and efficiently, giving landlords and tenants peace of mind.
Secondly, it’s a legal requirement under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. If you fail to obtain a valid gas safety certificate each year, you’re breaking the law—and that could lead to prosecution, fines, or even imprisonment.
How Often Must It Be Done
A gas safety check must be arranged by landlords every 12 months by law. Once through the checks, to abide by the laws, landlords must give tenants a copy of the certificate within 28 days of the checks being performed. For new tenants, this certificate must be provided before the tenants move in.
At HMO Horizon, we know it's all too easy for these deadlines to fall unnoticed. That's why we provide ongoing scheduled reminders and ongoing service planning, ensuring you stay compliant.
What’s Included in a Gas Safety Check?
During a typical gas safety inspection, the engineer will:
At HMO Horizon, our engineers are not only Gas Safe registered, but also trained specifically in working with HMOs—so you can rest assured you’re getting top-tier service tailored to your property type.
The Role of Gas Safety in HMOs
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are more complex than simply renting to one tenant - you're managing a number of people living in one house, which puts safety checks front and centre of the process.
A gas safety check and gas safety certificate will usually be one of a few documents required when local councils carry out inspections of your HMO. Failing to provide an appropriate gas safety certificate could adversely affect the renewal of your HMO license or the revocation of your HMO license altogether.
HMO Horizon works closely with landlords and has a great deal of experience finalising compliance requirements, including electrical and safety inspection certificates and fire safety audits.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Certificate?
Ignoring your gas safety responsibilities is risky business. Without a valid certificate:
These consequences aren’t just hypothetical—they happen. Don’t take the risk. Partner with professionals like HMO Horizon who handle the process from start to finish.
Why Choose HMO Horizon for Your Gas Safety Needs?
We’re not just another gas inspection service. At HMO Horizon, we specialise in property compliance for HMO landlords across the UK. Our services are designed to reduce your workload, keep your tenants safe, and protect your legal standing.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Whether you have one HMO or an expanding portfolio, our team can support you to remain safe and compliant at all times.
Obtaining a gas safety check and certificate is not just a tick box exercise. It's a fundamental part of being a responsible and legal landlord in the UK. The importance of this check each year cannot be overstated, from the serious potential legal ramifications down to protecting the health of your tenants.
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