What the Gas Safe Register means for you

The Gas Safe register is a new register that all qualified gas engineers must now sign up to so that you, the consumer, can more easily check up on your chosen engineer's qualifications. So what does this new Gas Safe system mean for us consumers?

When looking for a plumber or engineer to carry out any sort of gas related work, the best place to look is on the government's new Gas Safe website. As well as telling you all about the Gas Safe scheme, it also features a database of legally registered Gas Safe companies for you to choose from.

If you have hired an engineer already, it is imperative that you check his qualifications. The official website will show you exactly what to look out for with regards to these cards, as these to indicate what kind of gas work your engineer is qualified to do.

The types of gas work that are covered include: installing, repairing or servicing a gas boiler, any work on a heat producing appliance, for example radiators or your hot water system, if it is connected to either a Natural Gas or LPG (liquid petroleum gas) supply, installing or repairing a gas fire, gas cooker or hob. Some engineers may not be qualified to do all types of gas work so check their credentials carefully before allowing them to start work.

Landlords - If you are a landlord, then legally you have several obligations when it comes to gas safety, including having annual boiler checks in all your rented properties where a gas safety certificate must be obtained and presented to the current tenants by a Gas Safe registered engineer. For details of all of your legal requirements, see the government's official Gas Safe website.

Tenants - Because faulty gas appliances can be deadly, landlords are required by law to ensure that any gas equipment in the flat, house, or holiday accommodation that you are renting has been checked annually, and is in good working order. A gas safety certificate should be available for you to see to prove when your gas appliances were last checked.

If you suspect that your landlord is failing to comply with Gas Safe laws, don't let them get away with it, as they could be playing with your life and safety. If you suspect anything, and have yet to see a real gas safety certificate, then get in touch with the Health and Safety Executive. They will contact your landlord and if he or she fails to comply they could face a warning, fine or prosecution.

British Gas can help you to save money on a new boiler installation. Gas Safe old boiler with one of our central heating boilers such as the energy efficient range of Worcester boilers, you could save up to 40% on your bills.

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