Questions answered about gas inspection

Q: Which equipment is covered by the annual check?

A: We will carry out a gas safety check of any gas appliance – generally gas fires and boilers – which is provided by L&Q. We will not check appliances which you own, but we will check any flue or chimney which services your appliance. This means that we may have to disconnect and service the appliance to check the flue or chimney. We will, of course, refit your appliance after testing.

Q: Can I - as a resident - take responsibility for these duties?

A: No – it is a legal requirement for us to undertake the service and we have appointed Corgi-approved contractors to do this at no cost to you.

Q: Must I allow access to the property for safety checks?

A: Yes – you must, under your tenancy agreement, give us access to carry this out. As we have a lawful duty to do the safety work, if we are refused access after repeated requests, we will reluctantly take action through the courts. This could result in you losing your home if access continues to be denied.

Q: How do I know whether the gas installer is CORGI-registered?

A: Before we take a contractor on we always check that they are registered with Corgi, the national watchdog for gas safety in the United Kingdom. The Corgi registration number is printed at the top of all safety checks. If in doubt please check with us by calling the freephone maintenance number.

Q: What if an appliance fails the safety check?

A: The safety check record will contain details of any defects together with any action taken to remedy them at that time. Any defects on appliances owned by us will be put right free of charge and as soon as possible. It is an offence to use, or allow the use of, a gas appliance you know to be unsafe. Never reconnect an appliance that you have been told is unsafe, or which has either been isolated or disconnected for safety reasons.

Q: What action do I take in the event of a gas leak?

A: If you smell gas, or suspect there is a gas leak, you should immediately shut off the gas supply at the meter, open windows, extinguish naked flames, do not use electrical switches and call the Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Q: I have not seen a copy of any safety check record - what should I do?

A: Call us on the freephone maintenance number, for your region, and ask us to send you a copy of the safety check record.

Q: What must I do if I have a gas appliance, flue or other fittings I own?

A: Residents are responsible for the maintenance and safety of appliances, flues and other fittings they own. To make sure you and your family remain safe from the possible dangers, follow these simple steps to gas safety:

• Ensure appliances are checked for safety annually by a CORGI Registered Installer
• Be cautious when buying second hand appliances. Do not save on safety.
• Never be tempted to DIY with gas.

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