A gas safety check on a typical home with one boiler and a gas hob is usually finished in under an hour. Each additional appliance, such as a gas fire or a second boiler, adds time, and so do awkward access, a flue hidden behind boxing or a fault that needs investigating. The engineer tests the gas supply for tightness, then checks each appliance, its ventilation and its flue.
For landlords the check has to happen at least every twelve months and the tenant must receive a copy of the record. For homeowners it is not a legal requirement, but many choose to have one done when they buy a house or alongside a service.
What takes the time
- Tightness test on the gas installation, which checks the pipework holds pressure with no leaks
- Checking the standing and working pressure at each appliance
- Making sure each appliance burns correctly and its safety devices work
- Inspecting flues and chimneys for the route, condition and termination
- Confirming ventilation is adequate where the appliance needs it
- Writing up the record with any defects and their classification
What makes it take longer
More appliances is the obvious one. Beyond that, the usual delays are practical: a boiler inside a fitted cupboard with no easy access, a flue running through a loft or behind boxing that has to be traced, keys for a meter cupboard nobody can find, or furniture blocking a gas fire. In rented properties, arriving to find the tenant not in is the biggest single cause of delay, which is why agreeing access in advance matters.
If the engineer finds a fault, the check does not stop. They record it, explain it and make it safe where needed. An appliance classed as immediately dangerous will be disconnected with your permission, or turned off and labelled if you do not agree to disconnection.
How to prepare
- Clear access to the boiler, meter, hob and any gas fire
- Make sure the loft hatch is reachable if the flue runs through it
- Have previous gas safety records or service paperwork to hand
- Tell the engineer about anything that has changed, such as a new extension near the flue
- For rentals, confirm a time with the tenant and give them written notice
Gas safety check or boiler service?
They overlap but they are not the same visit. A gas safety check confirms each appliance is safe to use. A service goes further on the boiler itself, opening it up, cleaning components and checking performance so it stays reliable. Many landlords combine both at one appointment, which saves a second visit and a second arrangement with the tenant.
After the check
You receive a record listing each appliance checked and any defects found. Landlords must give existing tenants a copy within 28 days of the check and new tenants a copy before they move in, and keep records for two years. Our landlord guides cover the paperwork and the tenant access rules in more detail.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need to be at home for a gas safety check?
- Someone needs to let the engineer in and give access to every gas appliance. In a rental that can be the tenant, the landlord or an agent.
- Will my gas be turned off during the check?
- Briefly, while the tightness test is carried out. Appliances are relit and checked afterwards.
- What happens if my appliance fails?
- The engineer records the defect and explains it. An appliance found immediately dangerous is disconnected with your permission, or turned off and labelled so it is not used.
- How often does a gas safety check need doing?
- In rented homes, at least every twelve months. Homeowners are not legally required to have one, though an annual boiler service is recommended by manufacturers.
- Can the check be done at the same time as a service?
- Yes, and it is a common way for landlords to reduce visits. Mention it when booking so enough time is allowed.
Need a gas safety check booked?
Tell us how many appliances there are and we will arrange a time that suits.