A Gas Safety Certificate, also known as a CP12, is an annual inspection of a property’s gas appliances, fittings, and flues. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure all gas installations are operating safely, efficiently, and in line with current safety standards, helping to protect occupants from risks such as gas leaks, fire hazards, and carbon monoxide exposure.

For rental properties in England, Gas Safety Certificates are a legal requirement under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that all gas appliances and flues are checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

A Gas Safety inspection must be carried out every 12 months, and a valid certificate must be in place at all times during a tenancy. Landlords are required to provide a copy of the certificate to existing tenants within 28 days of the check, and to new tenants before they move into the property.

A current Gas Safety Certificate is a fundamental part of maintaining a safe rental property and demonstrating compliance with essential legal responsibilities.