What is a gas safety certificate?
A gas safety certificate is the everyday name for a Gas Safety Record, often called a CP12. Here is what it covers, who needs one and how often.
The short answer
“Gas safety certificate” is not an official legal term. People use it for the record an engineer completes after checking the gas appliances, pipework and flues in a property. The formal name is a Landlord Gas Safety Record, and the form is widely called a CP12.
The check must be carried out by an engineer on the Gas Safe Register.
What the engineer checks
For each gas appliance covered, the engineer checks that it is working safely and that its flue and ventilation are suitable. The checks include:
- Gas supply pipework: tightness and visible condition
- Each appliance: correct operation, burner and flame
- Flues and chimneys: that combustion products are removed safely
- Ventilation: that there is enough air for the appliance
- Safety devices fitted to the appliance
The record lists the appliances checked, any defects found and what action was taken or advised. It is a safety check, not a service, and not a guarantee that nothing will go wrong later.
Who needs one
Landlords of residential property in England, Scotland and Wales must have the gas appliances, flues and pipework they are responsible for checked every 12 months, and give tenants a copy. See our landlord guide.
Homeowners living in their own home are not legally required to have one, but an annual check is sensible. See gas safety checks for homeowners.
How much does one cost with us?
£92.50 for up to two appliances, plus £22.50 for each additional appliance. Gas fires are charged separately.
Defects, repairs, parts and boiler servicing are separate. Prices are for the check itself.
Gas safety certificates and prices · Service or safety check?
Common questions
Is a gas safety certificate the same as a CP12?
In everyday use, yes. CP12 is the name of the common form used for the Landlord Gas Safety Record.
How long does a gas safety certificate last?
A landlord record is valid for the 12-month cycle. The next check is due within 12 months, and can be done in the two months before the due date without losing the original deadline.
Does the certificate mean my boiler has been serviced?
No. A safety check records safety findings. A service is maintenance to the manufacturer’s instructions. See service versus safety check.