About 30 people die every year in the UK through poorly installed or badly maintained gas appliances and flues resulting in deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 enforced by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is legal requirement which specifically deals with the installation, maintenance and use of gas appliances, fittings and flues in domestic and certain commercial premises.

The HSE state that 'These duties to protect tenants’ safety are in addition to the more general ones that landlords have under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999'.

All landlords are obliged by law to adhere to these regulations and face severe penalties for non compliance including manslaughter charges if the unthinkable was to happen in that death resulted from a gas leak.

As a landlord (or agent of a landlord) you simply have to arrange to have a Gas Safety Check carried out on all gas appliances and flues annually, or within 12 months before the start of a new tenancy. Ensure all Checks carried out are done by a Gas Safe engineer and give a copy of the report issued to you to the existing tenants and keep one yourself for at least 2 years.

Quick Landlord guide to Gas Safety;

1. Implement a system of annual checks and maintenance for all gas related appliances and flues.
2. Use a qualified Gas Safe engineer to carry out any installation, maintenance or Gas Safety checks.
3. Keep all records and certificates for work carried out.
4. If a managing agent is used ensure you are aware of who is responsible within the contract. Don not automatically assume it is not you.
5. Work with the tenants to ensure good access to the property for maintenance to be carried out.
6. If access is not possible then ensure you fully document that you have taken reasonable steps.
7. Ensure all appliances meet the general requirements.
8. Ensure all tenants have emergency instructions and ready access to the gas meter and cut off valve.
9. Do not use second hand gas appliances.
10. Provide all relevant documentation for appliances and manufacturers operating instructions.

As explained above, At Safety check we are dedicated to ensure the relevant prevention is put in place to ensure the Client is making every effort to put the safety of others first.

The Flex Group
Flex House
1-3 Wyke Street
Hull
HU9 1PA
Phone 01482 247505
© Flex Maintenance Services 2010, Registered Number 07392657