What are gas safety certificates? Do you have to have one?

If any of these questions has crossed your mind at least once, you’re in the right place. In the following article, you’ll find out everything there is to know about gas safety certificates and how to get one. Read on to find the answers of our friends at Enhanced Energy Solutions.

What Is A Gas Safety Certificate?

There are many types of gas safety certificates, depending on the appliance or the system for which is issued. However, a gas safety certificate is the vital proof that an appliance and any other related equipment is safe to use and poses no threat to people living or working nearby.

Do Gas Safety Certificates Expire?

Because the effects of a malfunctioning appliance or system can be devastating, every gas safety certificate must be renewed once a year. Every evaluation must be carried out by a registered engineer that has the legal ability to issue the certificate.

According to Phil from Enhanced Energy Solutions “Even if they do expire, we recommend you keep the record for the last two years. This will help you prove your compliance in case this is needed.”

What Happens During An Inspection?

The annual inspection aims at checking any appliance and equipment that uses gas. While performing an inspection, the Gas Safe registered engineer must:

• Check if all appliances comply with the safety regulations and if they work properly
• Compare the real gas pressure to the one stated on the original documents of the appliance
• Make sure that proper ventilation is not hindered by any obstacles, as this can increase the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning
• Check the flue flow and ensure the combustion happens properly

What Should The Certificate Include?

A valid gas safety certificate will include all the information below:

• The name and address of the owner of the property
• The address of the property where the inspection is carried out
• The date of the inspection
• The description and location of each appliance and flue inspected
• The issues that were identified and the intervention that corrected them
• A confirmation that all appliances are safe to use and are working properly
• The details of the engineer who performed the inspection (name, signature and Gas Safe number)
• The date when the next inspection must be carried out.

Request Your Gas Safety Certificate

If your certificate is due and you haven’t yet requested a new inspection, don’t wait any longer. You’re not only risking a fine that starts from £6000 per uninspected item and potential imprisonment, but also your – or your tenants’ – life.

Gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions can happen at any time, and they have devastating effects. This is why Gas Safety Certificates are mandatory for any household or building. Request a certificate today from our friends at Enhanced Energy Solutions – they will gladly assist you.