Do You Need Gas Safety Certificate to Sell House

When preparing to sell a property in the UK, it is natural to wonder what documents are legally required and what might simply help reassure buyers. One of the most common questions among sellers is whether a gas safety certificate is necessary in order to complete a sale. The answer depends on the type of property being sold, its current use and the expectations of the buyer, lender or legal representative.

This article explains when a gas safety certificate is required, who it applies to, what the certificate covers and how it can influence the sale process.

Is a gas safety certificate a legal requirement for selling?

For private homeowners selling their main residence, there is no legal obligation to provide a gas safety certificate at the point of sale. Unlike Energy Performance Certificates, which are mandatory, a gas safety certificate is not a statutory requirement for all property sales. This means you can still legally sell your home even if you do not have an up-to-date certificate.

However, while it is not legally required, many buyers will expect some form of recent evidence that the gas appliances, boilers and pipework are safe and functioning correctly. This is particularly true for modern buyers who rely on surveys and safety documents to inform their decisions.

When is a gas safety certificate required by law?

The key legal obligation applies to landlords, not private sellers. If you rent out a property, you must provide tenants with a valid Gas Safety Record every twelve months, completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This requirement falls under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 and is strictly enforced.

If you are selling a buy-to-let property, you will be expected to provide evidence that gas safety checks have been carried out in accordance with the regulations. If the buyer intends to continue renting the property, they will want to see a current Gas Safety Record as part of their due diligence.

In contrast, if you are selling your own home and not acting as a landlord, there is no specific legal duty to supply a gas certificate.

What does a gas safety certificate cover?

A gas safety certificate, or Gas Safety Record, confirms that all gas appliances, flues and pipework in the property have been checked and found safe to use. It is issued after a qualified Gas Safe engineer inspects the system and verifies that it meets current safety standards.

The check typically includes the boiler, gas hob or cooker, gas fire and any visible gas pipework. If issues are found, the engineer may classify them as either needing repair or presenting immediate danger. These notes will appear on the report and may influence the buyer’s perception of the property.

How does this affect the sale process?

Although not a legal requirement, providing a recent gas safety certificate can smooth the conveyancing process and instil confidence in the buyer. It shows that the seller has maintained the property responsibly and can help avoid questions or delays during the survey stage.

If you do not provide a certificate, the buyer’s solicitor may raise enquiries or request one as part of the transaction. Some buyers might accept a written declaration, others might ask for a fresh inspection. In some cases, the buyer may request a boiler service or gas check before exchange or adjust their offer to reflect potential uncertainty about the system’s condition.

Can the lack of a certificate impact your sale?

In most cases, the absence of a gas safety certificate will not prevent a sale from going through. However, it can raise concerns for buyers who want peace of mind or who are using a mortgage provider that asks for additional checks.

If the boiler is old or there is evidence of poor maintenance, a buyer might use the lack of a certificate as a bargaining point to lower their offer. Similarly, if the survey highlights possible gas safety issues, the buyer could request a reduction in price or ask for remedial work before completion.

Should you get one anyway?

While it is not mandatory, getting a gas safety check before selling your home can be a smart move. It generally costs between £60 and £100 and provides documented proof that the system is safe. If the inspection reveals no issues, you can provide the certificate during the sale, which may speed up the process and offer peace of mind.

For homes with newer boilers or recently installed appliances, you may already have installation certificates or servicing records, which can also be provided to support the condition of the system.

Conclusion

You do not legally need a gas safety certificate to sell your home in the UK unless the property is a rental. However, buyers increasingly expect sellers to demonstrate that gas appliances are safe and functioning. While optional, a recent gas safety check can help your sale progress more smoothly, reduce questions during conveyancing and give prospective buyers added confidence. If you are selling a buy-to-let or a property with gas appliances of unknown age, it may be worth arranging a gas safety inspection before going to market.