Gas safety certificate expired: what a landlord should do
A lapsed landlord gas safety record is a compliance problem you can start fixing today. These are the practical steps.
Step 1: book a check now
Landlords must have each gas appliance and flue checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer every 12 months. If the date has passed, arrange the check as soon as possible rather than waiting for a convenient slot.
Step 2: keep the evidence
- The date you found the record had expired
- Messages and emails booking the new check
- Any access attempts and tenant replies
- The new gas safety record when it is issued
Records of what you did and when can matter if anyone asks later.
Step 3: give tenants the new record
Existing tenants should receive a copy within 28 days of the check. A new tenant must receive a copy before they move in. Keep your copy for two years.
What if the check finds a fault?
The engineer explains the findings. An unsafe appliance may need to be made safe or switched off, and any repair is agreed with you separately. Do not let the appliance be used until you have been told it is safe.
Avoid it happening again
You can arrange the next check up to two months before the expiry date and keep the same renewal date. Put the date in your diary, or ask your agent to manage it. See the landlord gas safety checklist.
Consequences
A missing or out-of-date record can lead to enforcement action, and the position under a tenancy agreement can be affected too.
This is general information, not legal advice. For your own tenancy, ask a solicitor or a landlord association.
Book your check
Book a landlord gas safety check online, or call free on 0800 118 2128. A CP12 record is £92.50 for up to two appliances and £22.50 for each additional appliance; gas fires are charged separately. See the landlord gas safety check page.
Common questions
Is there a grace period after the expiry date?
No. The check is due every 12 months. The two-month window is for renewing early, not for being late.
Do I need to tell the tenant the certificate has expired?
Be open with your tenant and arrange access for the new check as soon as you can. Give them the new record once it is issued.