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Hiring the qualified commercial gas engineers for a commercial landlord gas safety certificate
If you’re a commercial landlord in the UK, staying on top of your legal responsibilities is vital — and gas safety is one area you can’t afford to overlook. Whether you’re renting out a shop, office, restaurant, or industrial unit, a commercial landlord gas safety certificate isn’t just a good idea — it’s a legal requirement.
Let’s break down what you need to know, without the jargon.
What Is a Commercial Landlord Gas Safety Certificate?
A commercial landlord gas safety certificate, officially known as a CP12 certificate, confirms that all gas appliances, pipework and flues within the property are safe and working correctly. This includes boilers, gas heaters, ovens, and any other gas-related equipment.
This certificate must be issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer. It’s part of your duty under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998.
Do You Legally Need One?
Yes, absolutely. If you’re letting out a commercial property where gas appliances are present, you’re legally required to have a valid gas safety certificate in place. This applies to most types of commercial buildings, from retail units and cafes to office blocks and warehouses.
Even if the tenant is responsible for their own appliances, the landlord is usually still responsible for pipework and permanent fixtures. It’s always best to double-check your lease agreements to be clear.
How Often Do You Need a Gas Safety Check?
The law says you must have a gas safety check every 12 months. After each check, you’ll receive a new CP12 certificate. Keep hold of these records for at least two years — they’re proof that you’re meeting your legal obligations.
If your tenant is responsible for any part of the gas system, make sure that’s clearly written into the tenancy agreement. But in most cases, landlords need to organise and pay for the inspection.
What Happens During a Commercial Gas Safety Inspection?
A registered engineer will carry out a series of checks, including:
- Inspecting gas appliances for wear and tear
- Checking for gas leaks or unsafe emissions
- Making sure there’s proper ventilation
- Confirming flues are clear and working properly
- Testing safety devices on appliances
If everything’s in order, they’ll issue the certificate there and then. If any issues are found, they’ll need to be fixed before the certificate can be given.
Penalties for Not Having a Gas Safety Certificate
Not having a valid commercial landlord gas safety certificate isn’t just risky — it’s illegal. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines, invalid insurance, or even a prison sentence in extreme cases. If there’s an accident or injury due to faulty gas equipment, and you didn’t have the proper certification, the consequences could be severe.
How to Get a Commercial Gas Safety Certificate
It’s straightforward: contact a Gas Safe registered engineer who’s qualified to work on commercial systems. Not all engineers are — so always double-check their credentials before booking.
Once the inspection is complete and all systems are declared safe, you’ll get your certificate, either in digital form or on paper.
The Bottom Line
If you’re a commercial landlord, a commercial landlord gas safety certificate isn’t optional — it’s part of your legal duty to keep tenants safe and protect your property. Don’t leave it to chance. Book your annual inspection, stay compliant, and keep your investment secure.
