Gas safe register

Key takeaways

• Homeowners can check engineer credentials on the Gas Safe Register website or by text.

• Only engineers listed on the Gas Safe Register should install or service gas appliances. This is crucial for preventing carbon monoxide leaks from poorly installed or maintained appliances.

• Landlords and property owners should ensure gas appliances are regularly serviced and maintained by qualified professionals to comply with safety regulations

What is the Gas Safe Register?

When it comes to gas safety in your home, there's no room for shortcuts or guesswork. The Gas Safe Register is the cornerstone of ensuring that the appliances in your home are installed, maintained, and serviced by professionals who are authorized and competent to do so. Established in 2009, this official list replaced the CORGI gas registration scheme and has since been the go-to directory for over 125,000 engineers listed dedicated to upholding health and safety standards in UK households.

Why does the Gas Safe Register matter?

The Gas Safe Register isn't just a list; it's a pledge to safety. With regular inspections and a commitment to investigating reports of malpractice, the register serves as a guardian of gas safety. By choosing a Gas Safe registered engineer, you're not only ensuring that the work in your home complies with strict safety standards, but you're also taking a crucial step to prevent gas leaks, fires, and the silent threat of carbon monoxide poisoning.

How do I check if my boiler is registered Gas Safe?

It’s easy to check if your boiler has been registered with Gas Safe. All you need to do is head to the Gas Safe Register website and enter your house name or number plus postcode to see whether your appliance is on the system. If you find that you need a copy of the registration certificate, it can be ordered for a fee of £6.84 and will be sent to you via email and post, ensuring you have the necessary documentation at hand.

What do I do if my boiler isn't Gas Safe registered?

Discovering that your boiler isn't registered can be unsettling. The first course of action is to reach out to the installer to have the appliance registered retrospectively. In cases where the installer is no longer available or the company has ceased operations, it's imperative to engage a qualified Gas Safe engineer to inspect and officially register your boiler. This step is not just about compliance; it's about peace of mind.

Can I DIY my own gas appliances?

There's a good reason why DIY on gas appliances is a big no-no: it's downright dangerous. Only a Gas Safe Registered engineer has the expertise and authorisation to safely carry out gas work. Unauthorised, unprofessional work can lead to severe hazards, and worse, it may invalidate your home insurance, leaving you unprotected and at risk.

What Gas Safe rules must landlords follow?

Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their tenants. This includes maintaining gas appliances and conducting annual gas safety checks by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. Tenants must be given a copy of the safety report within 28 days of the inspection. As a landlord, it’s a smart idea to take out dedicated landlord boiler cover so that any fixes can be performed quickly and without having to bear a hefty cost in the process. Comprehensive cover often includes the cost of registering the boiler as well as annual servicing, making it a smart investment.

Additionally, many boiler cover plans include a free annual service to keep your boiler in tip-top shape.

How do I find a qualified Gas Safe engineer?

It’s easy to find a suitable professional because the Gas Safe Register runs a Find an Engineer service on its website (www.gassaferegister.co.uk). You simply type in your postcode and the service randomly picks 50 engineers in your area. Or you can refine your search by selecting a particular type of engineer. If you need assistance, you can call the consumer helpline at 0800 408 5500.

Check which appliances your engineer is qualified to work on

Not all Gas Safe engineers are qualified for every type of gas appliance. It's crucial to check the engineer's official ID card to ensure they have the right qualifications for the specific job you need them to do. This verification process protects you and ensures the safety of the work being carried out.

Verify your engineers identity

Before any work begins, make sure to verify the engineer's identity. The Gas Safe Register provides a "Check an Engineer" service online or via text, where you can confirm their registration number and credentials. To verify via text, send GAS and the registration number to 85080. This step is a simple yet effective way to safeguard your home against unqualified workmanship.

What additional services and protections does the Gas Safe Register offer?

The Gas Safe Register goes the extra mile by offering free safety inspections for work completed within the last six months. While not all properties will be chosen for an inspection, applicants will be notified within six months to arrange a visit. This service ensures that the gas work in your home meets the required standards.

How do I make a complaint about a Gas Safe engineer?

If you're dissatisfied with the work or service of a Gas Safe engineer, you can lodge a complaint directly with the Gas Safe Register. Additionally, reporting unregistered engineers is crucial, as they may be operating illegally and putting lives at risk.

Do I need a Gas Safe certificate to sell my home?

While a gas safety certificate is not a legal requirement for selling a home, it may be requested by solicitors. A recent service within the past 12 months should provide the necessary certificate, which can smooth the sale process and offer reassurance to potential buyers about the safety of the home's gas appliances.

The Gas Safe Register is more than just a regulatory body; it's an essential resource for homeowners and landlords alike. It stands as a reminder that gas safety is an ongoing responsibility, one that requires the expertise and diligence of Gas Safe registered professionals. Whether you're checking your boiler's registration, hiring an engineer, or ensuring the safety of your tenants, the Gas Safe Register is your partner in maintaining a secure and compliant home. Remember, when it comes to gas, always play it safe.