Gas Safety Guide for Tenants

Updated 3 January 2026 3 min read Category: safety

Introduction

Your landlord is responsible for ensuring the safety of the gas appliances in your home, you are also responsible for making sure you use the appliances correctly and are aware of potential faults and take the appropriate action.

Gas appliances working incorrectly can cause death so it's very important to read and follow this guidance.

Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities

Landlord's Duties: Your landlord is legally required to ensure gas appliances, fittings, chimneys, and flues are safe and well-maintained.
Annual Safety Check: Landlords must arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to conduct an annual gas safety check on every gas appliance and flue.
Gas Safety Record: After the check, your landlord must provide you with a Gas Safety Certificate within 28 days of the inspection or before you move in.

Recognize the Signs of Gas Appliance Issues

The two main causes for harm caused by gas appliances are fire/explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Gas Leak: Smell of rotten eggs or sulphur.
Faulty Appliance Signs: Yellow or orange flames instead of blue, soot or staining around the appliance, and excess condensation in the room.
Carbon Monoxide Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse, and loss of consciousness.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Your landlord has installed a carbon monoxide alarm in each room with a gas appliance (excluding gas cookers). Your landlord is responsible for repairing or replacing any faulty alarms.

Ventilation is Key

Air Flow: Never block ventilation sources like air bricks or chimney vents.
Extractor Fans: Use extractor fans if available, especially in rooms with gas appliances.

Gas Appliance Use

Correct Usage: Always use gas appliances as intended. Do not use them for purposes they're not meant for.
Professional Repairs: Never attempt DIY repairs on gas appliances. Always use a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

Emergency Procedures: Suspected Gas Leak

If you suspect a gas leak (smell of rotten eggs/Sulphur):

Immediately turn off the gas at the meter, extinguish flames, open windows, and leave the property.
Emergency Contact: Call the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999 from outside the property.
Do Not Use Electrical Devices: Avoid using electrical switches, as they can ignite gas.

Emergency Procedures: Suspected Carbon Monoxide

Evacuate the Premises: Immediately move to fresh air.

Seek Medical Attention: If anyone shows symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Ventilate the Area: If safe to do so, open doors and windows.

Do Not Re-enter the Property: Stay out until a professional has said it's safe.

Call for Help: Contact 0800 111 999.