Compliance
Gas safety certificates for landlords: how often, how much and what are the rules?
By Oscar Mustill, Founder of LeaseLink · Last updated 21 October 2026
Quick answer
Landlords must have every gas appliance, fitting and flue they provide checked every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Give existing tenants a copy of the record (often called a CP12) within 28 days of the check, and new tenants a copy before they move in. Keep each record for at least 2 years.
At a glance: landlord gas safety rules
| Requirement | Deadline or rule |
|---|---|
| Safety check | Every 12 months |
| Who can do it | A Gas Safe registered engineer only |
| Copy to existing tenants | Within 28 days of the check |
| Copy to new tenants | Before they move in |
| Keep records | At least 2 years |
| Early checks | Can be done up to 2 months before the due date and keep the original expiry date |
| Carbon monoxide alarm | Required in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (gas cookers excluded) |
What does the gas safety check cover?
The engineer checks every gas appliance and flue the landlord provides. That usually means the boiler, gas fire and gas hob or cooker. They test for gas tightness, check ventilation and flues, and confirm appliances burn safely. Tenants' own appliances aren't covered, but the pipework feeding them is the landlord's responsibility.
How much does a landlord gas safety certificate cost?
Most landlords pay roughly £60 to £120 for a property with one boiler and a hob, with more for extra appliances. Prices vary by area and engineer, so get two or three quotes. Booking it alongside the annual boiler service often saves money.
How do I stay compliant? (step by step)
- Find a Gas Safe registered engineer. Check their ID number on the Gas Safe Register before booking.
- Book 1 to 2 months before the expiry date. Checks done up to 2 months early keep the original renewal date.
- Give tenants at least 24 hours' notice of access.
- Fix anything flagged. Appliances marked “at risk” or “immediately dangerous” must be made safe before use.
- Send the record to tenants within 28 days, and to new tenants before they move in.
- Store the record for at least 2 years, with a reminder for the next check.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at the start of each new tenancy.
What if the tenant won't let the engineer in?
Keep trying and keep a record. Write to the tenant, offer different times and note every attempt. Landlords must show they took all reasonable steps. Don't force entry.
What are the penalties?
Failing to carry out gas safety checks is a criminal offence enforced by the Health and Safety Executive. Landlords can face fines and, in serious cases, prison. A missing certificate can also cause problems if you need to go to court over a tenancy.
If you're a tenant
You should get a copy of the gas safety record within 28 days of the check, or before you move in. If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999 straight away. If your landlord hasn't arranged a check in over a year, ask in writing, then contact your council.
How LeaseLink helps
- Compliance tracking stores each property's gas safety record with its expiry date and reminds you before it's due.
- TradeLink lets you find and book local trades from inside LeaseLink.
- Maintenance requests log any faults the engineer finds and track the repair.
- Tenant documents give tenants their copy in the app, with a date record.
Frequently asked questions
How often do landlords need a gas safety certificate?
Every 12 months.
Is a CP12 the same as a gas safety certificate?
Yes. CP12 is the common name for the landlord gas safety record.
Can I do the gas safety check early?
Yes. Up to 2 months before the due date, and you keep the original expiry date.
Do I need a gas safety certificate if the property has no gas?
No, but you still need smoke alarms and electrical safety checks.
How long must I keep gas safety records?
At least 2 years.
Who is responsible for a tenant's own gas cooker?
The tenant is responsible for the appliance itself. The landlord is responsible for the pipework supplying it.
Sources
This article is general information, not legal advice. Check the latest rules with the HSE and GOV.UK.