The usage of gas in homes and commercial buildings has gone up over the years, mostly because it’s an economical source of energy. Even though gas is known to be quite safe, accidents cannot be entirely ruled out. When it comes to rented properties, not only are gas safety checks required by law, but they are also extremely important due to the five following reasons:
Reduced Risk of Accidents
Gas safety checks can help minimize the risk of accidents, including carbon monoxide poisoning or gas leaks. Without periodic gas installation checks, your tenants can risk dangerous CO (carbon monoxide) emissions. They will not be able to pick up on such emissions by smell or sight, and having no CO detectors on the rented property can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. As for gas leaks, they can even cause explosions and fires. In case of inadequate ventilation, there can be a build-up of harmful gases. By ignoring all the regular gas safety checks, you risk the safety of both your rented home and the tenants who live there.
Compliance with Legal Requirements
There are actual standards that define the correct installation of gas components, as well as adequate restraint of appliances designed to prevent accidents. That is why you should pick trusted gas safety checks in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, or any other place you’re located in. Once you pick a team that adheres to the Gas Safety Act and uses only licensed gas fitters, you can guarantee that your installations are spot on, meeting all the highest standards.
As a landlord, you can then demonstrate that you’ve taken all the required precautions to protect the rental unit. Staying compliant with local legal requirements is always the right way to go, especially when you’re dealing with matters of risk.
Protecting Your Tenants’ Health and Safety
Ensuring the safety of your tenants is one of the primary reasons why you should absolutely get proper gas safety certificates. The main purpose of each certificate is to prioritize the security of the property’s occupants. Specifically, it confirms that the appliances working with gas, such as cookers, heaters, and boilers, have been carefully inspected and deemed safe to use. Also, regular checks allow you to identify any potential leaks, CO omissions, or certain faulty equipment issues that can prevent hazardous situations and even save lives in some situations. Poorly maintained and faulty gas appliances can lead to huge risks, such as fires and carbon monoxide leaks, as we have already explained.
Fewer Costly Repairs
Getting a valid gas safety certificate can actually save you money in the long run. By making sure that all the appliances are running safely and efficiently, you can avoid some costly replacements and repairs down the line. Proper maintenance and regular inspections allow you to identify potential issues at an early stage so you can address them before they develop into more complex problems.
Thanks to this proactive approach, you can end up saving a lot of money over time, even though, as a landlord, you are not present on the premises.
More Peace of Mind for Landlords
Knowing that your gas installations and appliances are checked and deemed secure certainly reduces the stress and worry that you normally have as a landlord. That way, you can rest assured that your property meets safety standards, and the tenants can feel confident in the security of their living environment. Having a valid gas safety check is proof that the property has been inspected for safety under local regulations. So in case of any issues, this record can protect you from potential legal complications, including imprisonment and fines. In fact, if there is a mishap related to gas, you might be eligible for compensation, given that the property is insured. On the other hand, if the place was not inspected for gas safety, the insurance company may refuse to process your claim.
Gas is one of the most popular energy sources in commercial buildings and homes, but if it’s not handled right, its use might lead to dangerous incidents. Now that you’ve learned about all the key benefits of gas safety checks for landlords, we’re sure you’ll leave nothing to chance.
