When selling a house, there are many things to consider and documents to prepare. The answer is yes if you’re wondering if you need a gas safety certificate when selling your home. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a gas safety certificate is and why it’s important for buyers and sellers.
What is a Gas Safety Certificate?
A gas safety certificate is an official document that certifies that all gas appliances, fittings, pipework and flues in the property have been tested and certified by a qualified Gas Safe engineer. The certificate must be issued within 12 months of the property being sold or let, so it’s important to check when the last test was done before you put your house on the market.
Why Do I Need A Gas Safety Certificate?
Gas safety certificates are an important part of any property sale as they provide evidence that all gas appliances in the house meet current safety standards. This means that any potential buyer can rest assured that their new home is safe and compliant with current regulations. Furthermore, having a valid gas safety certificate will help to protect sellers from liability if something were to go wrong with the property after it has been sold.
Why Can I Not Issue My Own Gas Safety Certificate?
It may seem tempting to issue your own certificate to save money, but this would be illegal as only registered engineers are legally allowed to carry out these tests. Furthermore, suppose something were to go wrong with the property due to an incorrect assessment or faulty equipment. In that case, you could be liable for any damages or harm caused and face legal action from either the buyer or their insurer. Therefore, it is always best practice to engage with a qualified professional who can ensure that all tests are carried out correctly and accurately.
How Can I Check If My Property Has A Gas Safe Certificate?
When you’re selling your house, one of the first things that a potential buyer will likely ask for is a copy of any gas safety certificates that have been issued. Therefore, keeping copies of these certificates in a safe place is always advisable to easily find them when needed. If you are unsure whether your property has a current gas safety certificate, then you can visit the Gas Safe Register website.
Can I Get A Reprint Of My Gas Safe Certificate If I Can’t Find Mine?
Yes, you can easily get a reprint of your gas safety certificate if you are unable to find your original document. Many Gas Safe engineers offer this service, or you may be able to order a reprint directly through the Gas Safe Register website.
Selling your house involves more than just packing up your belongings; it also involves ensuring that all paperwork and legal requirements have been met for the sale process to run smoothly. One such requirement is obtaining a valid gas safety certificate which proves that all gas appliances in the house meet current safety standards. Without this document, buyers may be hesitant about making an offer on your property, so make sure you obtain one before putting your house on the market!