If you’re a landlord in Leamington Spa, Warwick, or anywhere across Warwickshire, there’s one legal obligation you simply cannot ignore: the annual Gas Safety Certificate, also known as a CP12. It’s not optional, it’s not something you can defer, and the consequences of not having one can be severe — for both you and your tenants.
What is a Landlord Gas Safety Certificate?
A Gas Safety Certificate (formally called a Gas Safety Record) is a document issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer after they’ve inspected and tested all gas appliances in your rental property. This must be done every 12 months without exception.
The inspection covers:
- The boiler and any gas fires
- Gas pipework throughout the property
- Flues and ventilation points
- Cookers and hobs (if gas)
- Any other gas appliances
What Does the Law Say?
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords are legally required to:
- Ensure all gas appliances and pipework are maintained in a safe condition
- Arrange an annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Provide tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Record within 28 days of the check
- Give new tenants a copy before they move in
- Keep records for at least two years
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Gas Safety Certificate?
The consequences of failing to comply are serious:
Criminal Prosecution
Failure to comply with gas safety legislation is a criminal offence. Landlords can face prosecution, an unlimited fine, and in serious cases, up to six months in prison.
Invalidated Insurance
Your landlord insurance policy may be void if you cannot prove a valid gas safety certificate was in place at the time of an incident. That means no cover for damage, injury, or legal claims.
Section 21 Notice Issues
Since 2015, landlords who haven’t provided tenants with a valid Gas Safety Record cannot serve a Section 21 (no-fault) eviction notice. Your ability to manage your tenancy could be severely compromised.
Tenant Injury or Death
This is the most serious consequence. Faulty gas appliances can leak carbon monoxide — an odourless, invisible gas that kills. If a tenant is harmed due to your negligence, the legal and personal ramifications are life-altering.
PPS Gas & Electric — Trusted by Warwickshire Landlords
PPS Gas & Electric works with letting agents and private landlords across Leamington Spa, Warwick, and the wider Warwickshire area. We offer:
- Annual CP12 gas safety inspections
- Landlord boiler servicing packages
- Same-day and emergency callouts
- Digital certificates sent directly to you and your agent
Don’t risk your tenants’ safety or your own legal standing. Getting your gas safety check booked takes minutes.
Call PPS Gas & Electric on 01926 778709 or visit ppsgas.com to book your appointment today.