If you own or run a business in the UK that uses gas appliances, you’ve probably heard about the need for a commercial gas certificate. But what exactly is it, and how do you get one?
In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know in simple terms, covering why it’s important, who can issue it, and how you can get it sorted without hassle.
What Is a Commercial Gas Certificate?
A commercial gas certificate, sometimes called a CP42 or commercial gas safety certificate, is an official document confirming that all gas appliances, pipework, and fittings on your business premises are safe and meet legal standards.
This certificate is required under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. It’s not just a box-ticking exercise — it helps protect your staff, customers, and property from the serious risks that come with gas leaks or faulty appliances, including fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Who Needs a Commercial Gas Certificate?
Any business in the UK that uses gas equipment needs a valid certificate. This includes:
- Restaurants, cafés, and takeaways with gas cookers or ovens
- Hotels and B&Bs with gas boilers or heaters
- Factories or warehouses with gas-powered machinery
- Offices or shops with gas heating systems
Even if you only have one small appliance, you’re legally required to have it checked regularly by a qualified engineer.
Who Can Issue a Commercial Gas Certificate?
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer can issue a commercial gas certificate. Not every Gas Safe engineer can do commercial work — they need to have the right qualifications and be authorised for commercial inspections.
You can check if an engineer or company is properly registered by looking them up on the official Gas Safe Register website. Don’t just take someone’s word for it — always check their ID card or registration number.
Who Can Issue a Commercial Gas Certificate?
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer can issue a commercial gas certificate. Not every Gas Safe engineer can do commercial work — they need to have the right qualifications and be authorised for commercial inspections.
You can check if an engineer or company is properly registered by looking them up on the official Gas Safe Register website. Don’t just take someone’s word for it — always check their ID card or registration number.
How Do I Get a Commercial Gas Certificate?
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get your commercial gas certificate:
Find a Qualified Engineer
Look for a Gas Safe registered engineer or company that’s qualified for commercial inspections. You can search online or ask for recommendations from other businesses.
Book an Inspection
Arrange a date and time that suits your business. The engineer will need access to all gas appliances and pipework on your premises.
Prepare for the Visit
Make sure appliances are accessible, clean, and ready to be tested. If you’ve noticed any issues, let the engineer know in advance.
Get the Inspection Done
The engineer will carry out a full check of all gas appliances, pipework, flues, and ventilation. They’ll look for leaks, wear and tear, and ensure everything meets current safety standards.
Receive Your Certificate
If everything passes, you’ll be issued a commercial gas safety certificate. If there are issues, the engineer will explain what needs fixing before you can get the certificate.
How Often Do I Need One?
By law, you need to have a gas safety check every 12 months. Make sure you keep the certificate in a safe place — you may need to show it to insurers, local authorities, or for compliance checks.
The Bottom Line
Getting a commercial gas certificate isn’t just about ticking a legal box — it’s about keeping people safe and protecting your business. By using a qualified Gas Safe engineer and staying on top of your yearly checks, you can have peace of mind that your premises are safe and compliant.
If you’re asking, “How do I get a commercial gas certificate?”, the answer is simple: find a trusted, qualified engineer, book your inspection, and stay organised with your annual checks.
FAQs
Yes, even if your business only has a single gas appliance — like a boiler or cooker — you’re still legally required to have it checked annually and hold a valid commercial gas certificate. There’s no exemption just because the system is small.
The cost can vary depending on the size of your premises, the number of appliances, and the engineer you hire. On average, prices range from £155 to £350 for a small business, but larger or more complex setups can cost more. It’s a good idea to get quotes from a few Gas Safe registered engineers before booking.
Not necessarily. Even if they’re Gas Safe registered, they need to be specifically qualified for commercial work. Always check their credentials and make sure they are authorised to issue commercial gas certificates — domestic and commercial gas work are not the same.
Failing to have a valid certificate is a legal offence. You could face fines, your business insurance might be invalidated, and in the event of an accident, you could be held liable for damages or injuries. Local authorities or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can also take enforcement action.
The time depends on the number of appliances and the complexity of the system. For a small café or shop, it might take 1–2 hours. For larger sites like hotels or factories, it could take several hours or even a full day. Your engineer should be able to give you a time estimate when you book.
Yes, many insurers will ask to see proof of regular gas safety checks as part of their risk assessment or compliance requirements. Keeping your certificate up to date can help with claims and show you’re meeting your duty of care.
Yes, if you’re a landlord and your commercial tenants use gas appliances, it’s your legal duty to arrange annual gas safety checks and provide a copy of the certificate to your tenants. Tenants should also ensure they maintain the safety of any appliances they’ve installed themselves.
If the engineer finds any faults or hazards, they will explain what needs to be fixed before a certificate can be issued. You should arrange the necessary repairs as soon as possible and have the appliances rechecked. Never ignore issues or continue using unsafe equipment.
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
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
