Should I Carry Out a Gas Safety Inspection When Purchasing a Property?

Yes, it is worth considering obtaining a Gas Safety Certificate when buying a property, especially if the property has gas appliances or a gas supply system.

While it may not be a legal requirement for a property purchase, having a Gas Safety Certificate can provide you with several benefits and assurances:

Safety

The primary purpose of a Gas Safety Certificate is to ensure the safety of gas appliances and gas supply systems. By getting the certificate, you can have peace of mind knowing that the gas installations and appliances in the property have been checked and deemed safe by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

Identification of Issues

The gas safety inspection conducted for the certificate can reveal any potential issues or faults with the gas appliances or gas supply, allowing you to address them before they become more significant problems. This can help you to save money from unexpected repairs after you move into the property.

Negotiating Tool

If the property’s gas appliances or systems are found to have safety issues during the inspection, you can use this information as a negotiating point in the purchase process. You may be able to request the seller to fix the issues before completing the sale or negotiate a reduction in the property’s price to account for the necessary repairs.

Compliance with Future Legal Requirements

While a Gas Safety Certificate may not be mandatory for property purchases in some regions, it could become a legal requirement in the future. By already having the certificate, you ensure that you are prepared for any potential changes in regulations.

Insurance Purposes

Some insurance providers may require a Gas Safety Certificate before offering coverage for properties with gas appliances. Having the certificate readily available can facilitate the insurance process.

Rental Potential

Plan to rent out the property in the future. A valid Gas Safety Certificate will be essential for complying with landlord responsibilities and ensuring the safety of your tenants.

Remember that gas safety is critical, and it’s always advisable to have gas appliances and systems checked by a qualified professional regularly, regardless of whether you are buying a property or already owning one. Before purchasing a property, consider engaging a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect and issue a Gas Safety Certificate if the property has gas installations.

If you are based in London and require a gas safety certificate, book one with Landlord Certificates Ltd.