Gas Safety Between Tenancies: A Landlord’s Handover Checklist

A vacant period is a chance to verify, not assume

The outgoing tenant has returned the keys and the next move-in date is close. It is easy to see a gas safety record in the file and tick the task off. First confirm that the record is up to date, covers the appliances and flues actually present, and can be given to the new tenant before occupation. HSE says landlords must ensure the installation is safe before re-letting, even when the property has been empty.

A change of tenant does not automatically create a fresh annual-check date. However, a current record is not permission to ignore changes or damage since the engineer’s visit.

Look for what changed after the last visit

HSE specifically calls out the risk of a previous tenant removing an appliance unsafely, leaving an open-ended pipe, shutting off a control valve or leaving their own gas appliance behind. Decide who owns anything left in place. If the landlord keeps it for the new tenancy, arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to check it and include it in ongoing safety and maintenance arrangements; otherwise arrange safe removal.

If tampering or vandalism is suspected during the vacant period, HSE recommends another gas safety check before giving new tenants access. It also recommends that installation pipework be inspected and tested for soundness before re-letting. A visual inventory by an agent helps identify questions; it is not a substitute for gas engineering work.

Put the handover in one place

Keep the latest landlord gas safety record with any remedial-work evidence, appliance list, engineer details and the date it was given to the incoming tenant. HSE allows secure electronic records where they can be reproduced and the tenant agrees to receive them that way; provide paper if requested. The new tenant needs the record before moving in, not after the keys have been handed over.

If a defect is recorded, arrange prompt action and do not allow an unsafe appliance to be used. A completed check and a boiler service are different things; if both are needed, make sure the work and documents are identified separately.

• Match the record to every landlord-provided appliance and flue
• Check whether appliances were removed, added or left behind
• Escalate suspected tampering or damage to a Gas Safe engineer
• Give the new tenant the current record before occupation

Plan the next check before the keys change hands

CertifyEPC can arrange a landlord gas safety check where one is due or the vacant-property review reveals a reason for another visit. Tell us about appliance changes and the intended move-in date. We can then help confirm the visit scope; the attending Gas Safe engineer determines the safety findings and any necessary remedial action.