If you operate a commercial property or run a business that uses gas appliances, you’ll need a CP44 gas safety certificate. But how much does it actually cost? In this guide, we’ll break down what the CP44 certificate involves, who needs one, and what you can expect to pay – without any of the technical fluff.
What Is a CP44 Gas Certificate?
A CP44 certificate is a legal document issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer to confirm that commercial gas appliances and pipework in a property are safe to use. It’s specifically for catering vehicles or mobile food units that use LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas).
You may also hear it referred to as a mobile catering gas safety certificate. It’s not the same as a domestic certificate like a CP12 (Landlord Gas Safety Certificate) – the CP44 is strictly for commercial use.
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Who Needs a CP44 Certificate?
You’ll need a CP44 gas certificate if you operate any of the following:
- Food trucks or catering vans using gas appliances
- Mobile kitchens at events or festivals
- Portable trailers with LPG systems
- Any commercial set-up that uses gas away from a permanent building
Gas safety laws in the UK are strict, and for good reason. Unsafe gas appliances can lead to fires, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning. A valid CP44 certificate shows you’re operating responsibly and meeting your legal obligations.
How Much Does a CP44 Gas Certificate Cost?
Prices for a CP44 gas certificate in the UK usually range between £155 and £450, depending on several factors:
Location
Costs in London and the South East tend to be higher than in the North or rural areas due to travel time and demand.
Number of Appliances
The more gas appliances your unit has, the more time it’ll take for the engineer to carry out checks, which affects the price.
Accessibility
If your vehicle or trailer is tricky to access or the gas installation is hard to inspect, it may take longer – and cost more.
Urgency
Same-day or out-of-hours inspections may come with an extra fee.
Tip: Always ask for a clear quote before the inspection and make sure the engineer is Gas Safe registered. You can check their ID on the Gas Safe Register website.
What’s Included in the Cost?
The price of a CP44 gas certificate generally covers:
- A full inspection of all gas appliances
- Tightness testing of pipework
- Ventilation checks
- Flue and chimney checks (if applicable)
- Pressure and leak tests
- Issuance of the CP44 certificate if everything is compliant
If any faults are found, the engineer will usually provide advice or a quote for repairs – but fixes are not always included in the inspection fee.
How Often Do You Need a CP44 Certificate?
You must renew your CP44 certificate every 12 months. Annual checks help to keep your equipment safe, reduce risks and meet insurance or event organiser requirements.
If you’re trading at events, many councils and organisers will ask to see a valid CP44 certificate before allowing you to operate.
The Bottom Line
The CP44 gas certificate cost in the UK might seem like just another overhead, but it’s a crucial part of keeping your business safe and legal. Expect to pay between £155 and £450 for a standard inspection, and keep in mind that the price can vary depending on where you are and how many appliances you’ve got.
If you run a food truck or mobile catering unit, keeping your gas systems up to scratch isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about protecting your staff, customers, and livelihood.
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FAQs
To find a qualified engineer for a CP44 gas certificate in your local area, visit the Gas Safe Register, enter your postcode, and filter by commercial or mobile catering services. You can also search terms like “CP44 gas engineer in Manchester” or “LPG gas check for food vans London” to find local providers.
Some engineers do offer same-day CP44 inspections, especially in busy areas like Birmingham, Leeds or Glasgow. Availability depends on the engineer’s schedule, and there’s usually an extra charge for urgent appointments.
Yes. If you install or replace any gas appliances in your catering van or mobile unit, you’ll need a fresh inspection to ensure everything meets safety standards. Your previous certificate won’t cover the new setup.
Yes. Most UK councils, event organisers and markets will request a valid CP44 gas certificate before allowing traders to operate. It’s often a condition for temporary licences or pitches at food festivals and street markets.
Yes, if your gas system isn’t up to standard, the engineer may refuse to issue the CP44 certificate. They’ll explain what needs fixing, and you’ll usually need to get the issues sorted and book a re-test. No certificate means you can’t legally use the gas equipment.
A CP12 is for residential rental properties, while a CP44 is for commercial mobile catering setups using LPG. If you run a food truck or trailer, you need a CP44 – not a CP12.
In most cases, yes. If you’re self-employed or run a limited company, gas safety checks for your business vehicle or trailer can be counted as a business expense. Speak to your accountant or check HMRC guidance to be sure.
Yes, a valid CP44 certificate covers your catering setup regardless of location – whether you’re in Bristol, Sheffield, Cardiff or Edinburgh. Just make sure the equipment hasn’t been altered since the last check.
Further Reading
What is the validity of a commercial gas certificate for businesses?
What is a CP44 gas certificate?
Landlord gas safety certificate
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
Where can I get my LPG gas conversion certificate?
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?
