What is a CP12 (landlord gas safety certificate)?
If you let a property with gas appliances, you're legally required to have them checked every year and keep a record. Here's what that record — often called a CP12 — actually is.
What a CP12 actually is
A “CP12” is the common name for a Landlord Gas Safety Record. “CP12” comes from the old “CP12” form used by British Gas; the industry still uses the term for the annual gas safety record a landlord must hold.
It's a document, issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer after inspecting the gas appliances and flues in a property, confirming they've been checked and are safe to use.
What the law says
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must make sure every gas appliance, flue and piece of pipework they're responsible for is checked for safety every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
You must give your tenant a copy of the record within 28 days of the check, and give a copy to any new tenant before they move in. Records should be kept for at least two years.
What's checked during the inspection
The engineer checks that appliances are burning gas correctly, that they're at the right operating pressure, that harmful gases are being safely removed via the flue, and that safety devices work.
They'll also check ventilation is adequate and look for any signs of unsafe installation. If something isn't safe, they'll explain it and advise what needs doing.
How often you need one
Once every 12 months. You can have the check done up to two months before the current certificate expires without losing the original expiry date, which makes it easier to keep renewals on the same annual cycle.
We use compliance software to track when each property is due, so landlords with more than one rental don't have to keep a spreadsheet — we simply let you know when a renewal is coming up.
Frequently asked questions
Is a CP12 a legal requirement?
Yes. Landlords must have gas appliances and flues checked every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer and provide tenants with a copy of the record.
How long does a CP12 last?
A landlord gas safety record is valid for 12 months from the date of the check.
How much is a CP12?
Our landlord gas safety check is £60 for up to two appliances, with a gas fire an additional £50. The certificate is issued after the visit.