If you run a mobile catering trailer in the UK, making sure it’s gas safe is more than just good practice – it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re frying chips at festivals or brewing up at a roadside stop, you’ll need a valid gas safety certificate to operate. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get a mobile catering trailer gas certificate, who can issue it, and why it matters.
Why Do You Need a Gas Certificate for Your Catering Trailer?
Your trailer likely runs on LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) to power cookers, fryers, grills, or hot water systems. These can be dangerous if not properly maintained. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 state that any gas appliances in commercial use must be checked regularly by a competent person.
Trading without a valid gas certificate not only risks safety – it could see your business shut down or fined. Many event organisers and councils will also ask to see your gas certificate before they let you trade.
Book your mobile catering gas check today.
Stay safe and fully certified.
Who Can Issue a Mobile Catering Gas Certificate?
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer qualified to work with LPG in commercial mobile catering can issue a certificate. This is very important. Not all gas engineers are authorised to check LPG systems, especially in catering trailers.
You can check if an engineer is properly registered by visiting the official Gas Safe Register website. Always ask to see their ID card and make sure it shows the right qualifications.
What Does the Gas Check Involve?
The gas safety inspection usually includes:
- Checking appliances for gas leaks
- Ensuring the ventilation is suitable
- Testing flues and exhaust systems
- Checking flame failure devices work properly
- Making sure hoses and pipework are safe and secure
- Verifying gas bottle storage and changeover valves meet safety standards
If everything is in order, the engineer will issue a CP44 Gas Safety Certificate, which is specific to mobile catering units.
How Often Do You Need One?
The certificate is valid for 12 months. You’ll need to book a new inspection every year to stay compliant and keep your insurance valid. Some insurers and event organisers might ask for even more frequent checks, so it’s worth double-checking.
How Much Does a Gas Certificate Cost?
Prices vary depending on the size of your trailer and the number of appliances, but expect to pay anywhere from £100 to £200. It’s a good idea to get a few quotes from local engineers and check reviews online.
Tips for Staying Compliant
- Keep all gas appliances well-maintained
- Never try to fix gas issues yourself
- Book your annual check in advance – don’t leave it until last minute before an event
- Store your certificate somewhere safe and have a digital copy handy
The Bottom Line
Getting a mobile catering trailer gas certificate isn’t just ticking a box – it’s about protecting you, your staff, your customers, and your business. Make sure you use a qualified engineer, book regular checks, and keep up with any changes to safety regulations.
If you’re just starting out in mobile catering or want peace of mind that everything’s above board, getting your gas certificate sorted is one of the most important steps.
FAQs
A domestic gas certificate applies to household gas systems, while a mobile catering gas certificate is specific to LPG equipment used in mobile food trailers. Engineers must have separate qualifications to issue each one.
Only if it’s still within 12 months and your trailer setup hasn’t changed. If you’ve added new appliances or modified the gas system, you’ll likely need a fresh inspection and certificate.
Visit the official Gas Safe Register website and search for engineers qualified in LPG and mobile catering. Always check the engineer’s ID card to confirm they’re certified for this specific work.
Yes. Even occasional use of LPG in a commercial catering trailer requires a valid gas certificate, regardless of how often you cook. The law doesn’t make exceptions for frequency of use.
The engineer will issue a report highlighting the problems. You’ll need to fix the issues before a certificate can be issued. Operating without one puts your business at risk and may invalidate your insurance.
No, gas certificates are specific to the trailer and appliances inspected. If you move equipment to another unit, a new inspection is needed.
Yes. If you apply for a street trading licence or pitch at a market or festival, the local authority will often ask for a valid gas safety certificate before approving your application.
Some engineers may offer discounts during quieter months. Booking outside of the busy summer season could save money and avoid last-minute delays before big events.
Further Reading
What is the validity of a commercial gas certificate for businesses?
Is a gas certificate compulsory for a commercial property?
Everything you need to know about getting an LPG certificate in London
Boiler Service Near Me: Essential guide to boiler maintenance
Does a commercial property need a gas safety certificate?
What you need to know about catering commercial gas certificate that covers catering
How much does an LPG certificate cost?
Commercial gas safety certificate
What you need to know about commercial gas safety certificate cost?
What certificate does a commercial landlord require for gas?
Commercial catering gas safety certificate law: What you need to know
How to Get the LPG Engineer – One That Issues LPG Gas Safety Certificates
Who is responsible for gas certificates in commercial properties?
