The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 make it mandatory that gas appliances must be maintained in a safe condition at all times. A requirement is that an annual safety check is carried out by a competent tradesperson that is registered with CORGI (Council for Registered Gas Installers).
It is extremely important that a landlord's responsibilities relating to gas safety are understood and are carried out. Failure to undertake these responsibilities under the Gas Safety Regulations results in a breach of contract of the tenancy agreement and is also a criminal offence enforced by the Health and Safety Executive.
Once a gas safety check has been carried out, the certificate should be given to any new tenant before they move in to the property or within 28 days for an existing tenant. It is recommended that a landlord should keep a copy of the gas safety certificate for up to 2 years after the check.
Further Information
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