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What happens if a landlord's gas safety check is late?
By the VoxaMTD team. Last verified 31 October 2026
A late gas safety check means the landlord is breaking the law. HSE says it will take action, which could result in a substantial fine, a custodial sentence, or both. HSE allows the check to be done up to 2 months early without changing the deadline, so booking ahead is the safe route.
The 12 month deadline is firm, and HSE treats gas safety as a high priority. A late check also leaves you without a current record to give tenants: existing tenants must have a copy within 28 days of each check, and new tenants must have one before they move in. Before you re-let, you must also make sure appliances and flues are safe and that you hold an up-to-date check record.
If the delay is down to the tenant, you must still show you tried. You must not force entry. Leave a notice with your contact details, write to the tenant to explain that the check is a legal requirement, and keep a record of all correspondence. HSE says its inspectors look for at least three attempts to complete the check. Diary the due date a few months ahead so you can use the early window and leave time for retries.
Read next
- What is Gas safety certificate (CP12)? →
- Gas Safety Certificate Rules for Landlords →
- Landlord compliance checker →
- Compliance records and reminders →
Sources
- HSE: Gas safety - landlords and letting agents
- GOV.UK: Private renting: Your landlord's safety responsibilities