Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to all your compliance and safety questions. From landlord certificates to appliance installations, we've got you covered.
What is a CP12 Gas Safety Certificate?
A CP12 certificate is a legal requirement for landlords in the UK. It confirms that all gas appliances in a rental property have been checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer and are safe to use. It must be renewed every 12 months.
Are your engineers Gas Safe registered?
Yes, absolute compliance is our priority. We are fully registered on the Gas Safe Register (Number 921071). Our engineers carry their ID cards at all times.
Do you offer emergency call-outs?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency response for gas leaks, carbon monoxide alarms, and complete boiler breakdowns across all 14 Greater Manchester boroughs.
How often do landlords need a CP12?
By law, landlords must have all gas configurations checked and certified every 12 months.
Do I need a certificate for every gas appliance?
Yes. Any gas appliance owned by the landlord inside the rental property must be tested and fully documented on the final safety record.
Will you liaise with my tenants?
Yes, our dispatch team can handle the booking logistics directly with your tenants to minimize your workload.
Can you do CP12 and EICR together?
Absolutely. The majority of local landlords choose to combine their Gas Safety and Electrical Installation Condition Reports into a single, streamlined engineer visit to cut compliance costs and reduce tenant disruption.
What is included in a CP42 inspection?
A CP42 inspection includes checking all gas appliances, testing gas pipework for leaks, assessing ventilation and extraction systems, and reviewing emergency shut-off procedures and interlock systems.
How often is a CP42 certificate required?
A CP42 certificate is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually to maintain strict legal compliance.
What types of businesses need a CP42 certificate?
Any commercial catering establishment using gas appliances needs a CP42 certificate, including restaurants, cafes, takeaways, hotels, and pubs.
How long does the inspection take?
The duration depends on the size of your kitchen and the number of appliances, but our engineers work efficiently to minimize downtime.
What happens if my kitchen fails the inspection?
If your kitchen fails, our engineers will clearly outline the necessary repairs. Appliances deemed immediately dangerous will be disconnected until they are safe to use.
What is a CP44 gas safety certificate, and is it different from a CP42?
CP44 is designed specifically for transportable commercial catering units utilizing high-pressure LPG cylinder supplies. A CP42 is for fixed, permanent commercial kitchens situated within brick-and-mortar buildings.
Is a CP44 certificate legally required if I only use bottled LPG?
Yes. Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, any commercial operator utilizing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) must possess a valid Mobile Catering Vehicle Safety Record (CP44 certificate) to trade legally.
How long does a CP44 safety inspection take, and when do I get my certificate?
We deliver comprehensive on-site inspections and provide fast-response CP44 certification. Our specialized mobile testing teams travel directly to your trading pitch, commercial yard, or residential storage location.
What happens if my mobile catering trailer fails the CP44 inspection?
If there are minor deviations (NCS), the certificate can still be issued. If an appliance is At Risk (AR), it must be turned off until repaired. If Immediately Dangerous (ID), the supply is disconnected immediately and labeled "DO NOT USE".
How often should I service my boiler?
It is highly recommended—and legally required for landlords—to have a certified gas engineer manchester service your boiler every 12 months.
How much does a boiler service cost?
Our transparent boiler servicing starts from just £70.
What are the signs that my boiler needs a service?
Look out for dropping pressure, strange noises, yellow flames instead of crisp blue ones, or radiators taking too long to heat up.
Do you offer emergency boiler safety checks?
Yes, our rapid-response team can be deployed quickly to isolate dangerous faults and ensure your property is secure.
How long does a boiler installation take?
A standard combi-swap installation is typically completed safely within 1 to 2 working days.
What types of boilers do you service?
We service all major makes and models, including Combi, System, and Conventional boilers from brands like Worcester Bosch, Baxi, and Vaillant.
How often do I need an EICR?
For landlords in the private rented sector, an EICR is legally required every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy. Homeowners are generally recommended to have one every 10 years or if they are moving into a new home.
What happens if the EICR is 'Unsatisfactory?
If the report is unsatisfactory, it means the electrical installation is not safe for continued use. The report will detail the defects and assign a code (C1, C2, or FI). Remedial work must be carried out within 28 days to bring the installation up to a satisfactory standard.
How long does an EICR inspection take?
The duration depends on the size of the property and the complexity of the electrical installation. Generally, a standard 3-bedroom house takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Is an EICR the same as a PAT test?
No. An EICR tests the fixed electrical wiring and installations within the property (like sockets, consumer units, and light fittings), whereas a PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) test is for movable electrical appliances with a plug (like kettles, toasters, and televisions).
Is a Fire Risk Assessment a legal requirement for an HMO?
Yes, it is a mandatory legal obligation under UK fire safety legislation for all Houses in Multiple Occupation.
How often do I need to review my Fire Risk Assessment?
It should be reviewed annually, or immediately if there are significant structural changes to the property or a change in tenant demographics.
Who can carry out a Fire Risk Assessment?
Only a competent, adequately trained fire risk assessor with specific knowledge of HMO property regulations should complete the report.
What happens after the assessment?
You will receive a detailed report outlining any hazards found. You must then take action to resolve these issues to maintain your legal compliance.
How long is an EPC valid for?
Once issued, a standard EPC remains valid for exactly 10 years.
Is an EPC a legal requirement?
Yes, it is a mandatory legal document for selling or letting any domestic or commercial property in the UK.
How can I improve my EPC rating?
Common upgrades include installing a new energy-efficient boiler, upgrading to double glazing, and increasing loft insulation. (Need a boiler upgrade? Our gas engineer manchester team can help!)
What is the minimum EPC rating for landlords?
Under current MEES regulations, rental properties must achieve a minimum rating of 'E' to be legally let to tenants.
How long does it take to install a gas cooker?
A standard replacement usually takes under an hour, providing your existing pipework is up to current standards.
Can you install gas hobs as well?
Yes, we provide full cutting, fitting, and testing services for built-in gas hobs.
What if my new cooker is LPG?
Our engineers carry specific LPG changeover qualifications to safely install bottled gas appliances.
Can I fit a gas hob myself?
No. It is illegal and dangerous to install a gas hob yourself. It must be completed by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.
Do I need a certificate for a gas hob installation?
Yes, your engineer will provide documentation proving the appliance was installed to current gas safety standards.
What is an LPG Gas Safety Certificate?
An LPG Gas Safety Certificate is an official legal document issued by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. It confirms that the LPG appliances, pipework, and ventilation systems in a property or mobile unit have been rigorously tested and meet all current UK safety regulations.
How much does an LPG Gas Safety Certificate cost?
Our pricing starts at £150 for a standard domestic/mobile setup.
Who needs an LPG Gas Safety Certificate?
Annual LPG safety inspections are a strict legal requirement for commercial businesses and landlords. They are also highly recommended as a vital safety check for private homeowners with LPG systems.
How often do I need to get an LPG Gas Safety Certificate?
If you are a landlord or operating a commercial business, you must renew your LPG Gas Safety Certificate annually (every 12 months). Private homeowners are strongly advised to have an annual inspection.
What does an LPG gas safety inspection involve?
The inspection includes tightness testing for leaks, thorough safety checks on appliances (boilers, hobs, cookers), ventilation and flue checks, inspection of regulator and hose conditions, and testing of safety devices.
What are the consequences of not having a valid certificate?
For landlords and commercial businesses, failure to hold a valid certificate is illegal and can lead to severe fines, imprisonment, and invalidated insurance. For all users, untested systems pose severe risks of fire, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Extinguish all naked flames, open windows and doors, turn off the gas supply at the meter, and do not use any electrical switches. Call our emergency line immediately.
Do you charge a call-out fee?
Yes, our emergency call-out service has a standard fee which covers the first hour of on-site work and diagnostics.