There has been concern recently over the poor state of repair of gas appliances in rented accommodation. This has arisen following a number of deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning from defective appliances. It is the duty of the landlord to ensure that gas appliances are maintained in good working order. Landlords have been prosecuted and fined heavily in cases where people have been affected by defective appliances.

Following the introduction of Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 landlords are now legally obliged to:

• Ensure gas fittings and flues are maintained in a safe condition
• Ensure an annual safety check is carried out on each gas appliance and flue
• Have all installation, maintenance and safety checks carried out by a CORGI registered gas installer
• Keep a record of each safety check for at least two years

Issue a copy of the latest safety check record to existing tenants within 28 days of the check being completed, or to any new tenant before they move in

For further advice on this matter please contact either the Public Health Team or the Health and Safety Executive who enforce these regulations.