How do landlords get a boiler installation certificate in the UK?
Landlords in the UK get a boiler installation certificate by using a Gas Safe registered engineer who installs the boiler and reports the work through the Competent Person Scheme. Once everything is completed, the landlord receives a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate by post, usually within ten to fifteen working days. This certificate confirms that the boiler was fitted properly and safely, complying with current building regulations.
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What Is a Boiler Installation Certificate?
This certificate is official proof that a boiler installation complies with Part L of the Building Regulations. It confirms the boiler meets energy efficiency standards and that the installation was completed safely by a qualified engineer. There are two documents to be aware of: the Gas Safe certificate and the Building Regulations Compliance Certificate.
The Difference Between the Two Certificates
The Gas Safe certificate focuses on gas safety checks and is issued after a successful inspection by a Gas Safe engineer. The Building Regulations Compliance Certificate verifies that the installation has been registered with the local authority and meets all necessary technical requirements. Both are important for ensuring the property meets legal and safety standards.
Legal Obligations for UK Landlords
Landlords must comply with the Building Regulations 2010 and the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. These rules apply to any rental property where gas appliances, flues, or related pipework are installed or replaced.
Why boiler certification matters for legal compliance
Failing to obtain the correct documentation can lead to enforcement action, invalidate property insurance, and compromise tenant safety. These risks are avoidable by ensuring all installations are properly certified by a competent and registered professional.
When Do You Need a Boiler Installation Certificate?
You will need this certificate when installing a new boiler, replacing an existing one, or modifying a central heating system that affects ventilation or performance. The requirement applies regardless of the appliance model or fuel type.
New Installations
A boiler installation certificate must be obtained each time a new appliance is installed in a rental property. The work must be completed by a registered engineer who reports the installation to the relevant authority.
Replacements and Upgrades
Replacing a boiler, even with a like-for-like model, still requires certification. This ensures the installation meets current safety and efficiency standards.
Modifications and System Changes
If you install smart controls, new flue systems, or update the heating layout, these changes can affect the safe operation of the boiler. Certification confirms the updated system complies with legal standards.
Who Can Issue a Boiler Installation Certificate?
Only engineers registered with the Gas Safe Register and certified through a Competent Person Scheme can issue this certificate. Alternatively, local authority building control can carry out the inspection and issue documentation.
Can any heating engineer provide this certificate?
No. The engineer must be officially registered and qualified for the type of work they carry out. You can verify this using the Gas Safe Register website, which provides up-to-date details of certified engineers and their qualifications.
Local Authority Building Control as an alternative
If you choose an installer who is not part of a Competent Person Scheme, the local council must inspect and approve the installation. This process is often more expensive and slower than using a registered installer.
What does a boiler installation certificate include?
The certificate contains key details that confirm the boiler’s compliance with regulations. This includes the installer’s Gas Safe registration number, the property address, boiler model, and the date the work was completed. It also confirms the installation meets the requirements of the Building Regulations.
For more information about boiler safety requirements and responsibilities, refer to the official Gas Safe Register or our guide on gas safety checks for landlords.
How can landlords check if a boiler is registered?
You can check the registration status of a boiler by visiting the Gas Safe Register website and using the certificate checking tool. All registered installations will show the date of notification, the address where the work was carried out, and the name of the installer.
If you cannot find the details, contact the installer directly or get in touch with the local authority building control department. Keeping a digital copy of your certificate makes future checks easier and helps maintain a clear record for tenant safety and legal compliance.
Stay Compliant with Gas Safety Checks
Annual CP12 inspections and certification for rental properties by qualified professionals.
What happens if a landlord does not have a boiler installation certificate?
If you do not have a valid certificate, you could face several problems. Firstly, it is a legal requirement, and failing to comply could result in fines. Secondly, if a tenant makes a complaint or there is an incident involving the heating system, the absence of a certificate could lead to legal claims or liability.
A missing certificate can also impact your ability to sell the property or renew insurance policies. Insurers may reject claims if there is no proof of safe installation. It is always worth confirming that your boiler installation has been correctly registered and documented.
How long should landlords keep the certificate?
There is no set expiry date for a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate. However, it is best practice to keep it for the lifetime of the boiler. If you sell the property or change tenants, this document is helpful in proving compliance.
Keeping copies of all gas safety and boiler installation certificates shows that you have taken your legal responsibilities seriously. You can store these as physical documents or keep them securely online. Either way, make sure they are accessible when needed, especially during inspections or property sales.
What can landlords do if the certificate is lost?
If the original certificate has been lost or misplaced, landlords can request a duplicate. For installations notified through Gas Safe, contact their support team and provide the installation address and approximate date of work. A replacement can usually be posted or emailed. If the work was approved by the local authority, you can request a copy through the building control department.
Duplicate certificates may come with a small administrative fee, but they provide important proof of compliance. Keeping a digital backup is recommended to avoid issues in the future.
Need a Certified Boiler Installation?
Our Gas Safe engineers provide fast, compliant boiler installations across the UK.
How much does a boiler installation certificate cost?
In most cases, the cost of the certificate is included in the overall price of the boiler installation. Gas Safe registered engineers who are part of the Competent Person Scheme usually handle the notification process as part of their service. If you need to involve the local authority building control, the cost can vary but typically ranges between £150 and £300 depending on your council.
Always check with the installer beforehand to confirm what is included. This avoids surprise costs and ensures you receive all the documentation you need.
Questions we get asked about boiler installation certificatesÂ
Do I need a certificate for a boiler repair?
No. Boiler installation certificates are only required for new installations or replacements. However, any gas repair must still be carried out by a Gas Safe engineer.
How soon should I receive my installation certificate?
If the work has been reported through the Competent Person Scheme, you should receive your certificate within ten to fifteen working days.
What if my installer refuses to provide a certificate?
Contact the Gas Safe Register immediately to report the issue. You may also contact your local building control if the work has not been notified correctly.
Can I install a boiler myself if I’m qualified?
Only if you are currently registered with the Gas Safe Register and certified under a Competent Person Scheme. Otherwise, it must be completed by a certified professional.
What should I do if the certificate has errors?
Get in touch with the installer to correct the issue. If they are unresponsive, contact Gas Safe or your local authority building control for support.
