The Legal Requirement: Annual Gas Safety Checks

As a landlord in Wales, you are legally responsible for:

• Annual Safety Checks: Ensuring that all gas appliances (e.g., boilers, cookers, fires) and flues in your rental property are checked for safety every 12 months by a qualified engineer.
• Qualified Engineer: These checks must only be carried out by an engineer who is on the Gas Safe Register. Always check their Gas Safe ID card.
• Maintenance: Maintaining all gas pipework, flues, and appliances in a safe condition.

What a Gas Safety Check Involves

During a gas safety check, the Gas Safe registered engineer will:

• Check gas appliances for gas tightness.
• Check the standing and working pressure (where applicable).
• Check burner pressure and gas rates against the manufacturer's instructions.
• Check for satisfactory provision of all necessary ventilation.
• Check flue flow and ensure the removal of products of combustion.
• Check the satisfactory operation of all flame supervision devices.
• Check for physical stability, effectiveness, and correct location of the appliance.
• Investigate any evidence of unsafe operation.

The Gas Safety Record (CP12 Certificate)

Once the check is complete, the engineer will provide you with a Gas Safety Record (often referred to as a CP12 certificate). This document must contain:

• Your name and address.
• The address of the property inspected.
• The date of the inspection.
• Details of all appliances and flues checked.
• Any defects identified and remedial action taken or required.
• The name, registration number, and signature of the Gas Safe engineer.

Providing the Certificate to Contract Holders

You must provide a copy of the Gas Safety Record to your Contract Holders:

• New Contract Holders: Before they move into the property.
• Existing Contract Holders: Within 28 days of the annual check being completed.

You must also keep a copy of the record for two years.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with gas safety regulations can lead to severe penalties and poses a significant risk to life:

• Serious Health Risks: Unsafe gas appliances can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks, fires, and explosions, which can be fatal.
• Legal Penalties: Landlords can face substantial fines (up to £6,000 per offence) and/or imprisonment.
• Invalid Insurance: Your landlord insurance policy may be invalidated if you haven't complied with gas safety regulations.
• Inability to Seek Possession: Under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, you cannot serve a 'no-fault' (Section 173) possession notice if you have failed to provide a valid Gas Safety Record to your Contract Holders.

Best Practices for Landlords

• Schedule Early: Don't wait until the last minute. Schedule your annual gas safety check well in advance to ensure it's completed before the current certificate expires. This can be completed up to 2 months before the renewal date and can maintain the original renewal date. 
• Use Reputable Engineers: Always verify that the engineer is on the Gas Safe Register.
• Keep Records: Maintain a clear and organised record of all gas safety checks and maintenance work.
• Communicate with Contract Holders: Inform Contract Holders about the importance of gas safety and advise them on what to do if they suspect a gas leak or problem.