If you run a business in the UK with gas appliances on the premises, you’ll need a commercial gas safety certificate. It’s not just about ticking a box — it’s a legal requirement. But how long does a commercial gas safety certificate remain valid? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Commercial Gas Safety Certificate?
A commercial gas safety certificate, also called a CP42 certificate, is issued after a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer inspects and tests gas appliances and pipework in a commercial property. This includes things like boilers, cookers, and gas heaters in places like restaurants, hotels, schools, factories, and offices.
The certificate confirms that your gas appliances are safe to use and meet current safety standards. It’s essential for protecting staff, customers, and the public, as well as staying on the right side of the law.
Book your commercial gas safety inspection today.
Don’t risk falling out of compliance.
How Long Is It Valid For?
A commercial gas safety certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. This means you need to book a fresh inspection every year to stay compliant.
Even if nothing has changed and everything is working as it should, you still need a new certificate every year. It’s not a one-off thing — regular checks are part of keeping your premises safe and legal.
How Do I Get a Commercial Gas Safety Certificate?
Who Needs One?
Any business or organisation that uses gas appliances must have a valid commercial gas safety certificate. This includes:
- Restaurants and cafés with gas cookers or ovens
- Schools and nurseries with gas heating systems
- Offices or shops with gas boilers
- Factories and warehouses
- Rental properties let to businesses
Landlords who rent out commercial properties with gas installations also need to ensure a valid certificate is in place.
Who Can Issue the Certificate?
Only a Gas Safe Registered engineer who is qualified for commercial work can carry out the inspection and issue the certificate. It’s important to double-check that the engineer is listed on the Gas Safe Register and is qualified to work on commercial systems — not just domestic ones.
Who Can Issue the Certificate?
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer who is qualified for commercial work can carry out the inspection and issue the certificate. It’s important to double-check that the engineer is listed on the Gas Safe Register and is qualified to work on commercial systems — not just domestic ones.
What Does the Inspection Cover?
The inspection will usually include:
- Checking gas appliances are working safely and efficiently
- Testing for gas leaks or faulty pipework
- Making sure the ventilation is adequate
- Confirming flues and chimneys are working properly
- Ensuring safety devices are functioning correctly
Once the engineer is happy everything is safe, they’ll issue the commercial gas safety certificate.
What Happens If You Don’t Have One?
Failing to have a valid commercial gas safety certificate can lead to serious consequences:
- Fines or prosecution from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Invalidation of your business insurance
- Potential closure of the premises
- Risk of gas leaks, fires, or carbon monoxide poisoning
Put simply — it’s not worth skipping. An annual inspection is a small price to pay for safety and peace of mind.
Don’t Leave It Too Late
Since the certificate lasts 12 months, it’s best to set a reminder a few weeks before it runs out. Engineers can usually carry out the inspection up to 28 days early, and the renewal date will still follow the original expiry, so you won’t lose any time.
The Bottom Line
A commercial gas safety certificate is more than just paperwork. It’s about making sure your workplace is safe for everyone. With a one-year validity, it’s essential to stay on top of renewals and book inspections with qualified Gas Safe Engineers.
If you’re not sure when yours is due, or you’ve never had one, it’s best to act now. Safety — and the law — depends on it.
FAQs
A commercial gas safety certificate is valid for 12 months from the date it’s issued. You’ll need to arrange a new inspection and certificate every year to remain compliant with UK regulations.
Yes, you can arrange your inspection up to 28 days before the current certificate expires. The new certificate will still start from the original expiry date, so you won’t lose any days by renewing early.
If your certificate lapses, you’re operating outside legal requirements. This can result in fines, business closure, and invalid insurance. More importantly, it could pose serious safety risks to staff and customers.
This depends on the terms of your lease. In many cases, the landlord is responsible for the certificate, especially if they own and maintain the gas appliances. However, some leases may make it the tenant’s duty — always check your agreement.
No — the engineer must be Gas Safe registered and qualified to work on commercial gas systems. Domestic gas engineers are not allowed to issue certificates for commercial premises.
Any business that has gas appliances on the premises needs one. This includes restaurants, pubs, hotels, schools, offices, shops, warehouses, takeaways, and factories, among others.
The main difference is the scale and complexity of the systems. Commercial gas certificates cover larger, more powerful appliances and pipework typically found in business settings. Only engineers qualified for commercial work can carry out these checks.
The inspection usually covers:
– Gas appliances working correctly
– Safe pressure and flo
– Adequate ventilation
– Flues and chimneys functioning properly
– No leaks or dangerous faults
Yes — if gas appliances are installed, even if they’re not currently being used, a certificate is still required. The system must be checked for safety regardless of use.
Costs vary depending on the size of the premises and number of appliances. On average, prices range from £250 to £650+, but it’s best to get quotes from qualified engineers in your area.
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
Who is responsible for gas certificates in commercial properties?
