Do you need to service gas appliances as a property owner? 

In the UK it is a legal requirement for Landlords to have a Gas Safety Check carried out by a licensed Gasfitter every year. It is also a requirement for this to be done when a new tenant moves in. This is not a legal requirement in Australia yet however a few years ago there was a case in Melbourne where two children, living in a rented property died due to the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. We also had a case here in Launceston where tenants of a rental property were admitted to hospital, again from carbon monoxide poisoning. Both of these cases were due to poorly maintained gas appliances that were not working correctly. Gas is safe, but must be treated with respect.

Gas Safety Inspection

What (does a Landlord Gas Safety Inspection include)?

• Pressure test to ensure there are no gas leaks
• Carbon Monoxide test to ensure gas appliances are safe
• Appliance check to make sure the appliance is working correctly
• Instruct the tenant on how to use the appliance(s)
• Check for any issues that may cause a safety issue
• Provide a written report to the Landlord or Property Manager.

Why?

• To enable landlords to provide a safe environment for their tenants. Ensuring that gas appliances are working correctly and guarding against the dangers of carbon monoxide provides peace of mind for both landlords and tenants.
• Tenants can also be advised on how to operate the gas appliances and use them to their maximum efficiency.
• Reduce the risk of breakdown.
• Increase the efficiency of the equipment
• Pre-warn you of imminent failure of the equipment.

When?

A Gas Safety Inspection can be carried out at anytime. Best practice should be to carry out inspections whenever new tenants move into the property or on an annual basis.

How?

The good news is, if you are a client of @home we can set up an annual service program to ensure that you are protected and the property is safe.