Their purpose is to prevent misuse, waste, undue consumption or erroneous measurement of water and, most importantly, to prevent contamination of drinking water.
They replace the former Water Supply Byelaws which each water supplier has administered for similar purposes for many years.
Since 1 July 1999 in England and Wales, 4 April 2000 in Scotland* and 3 August 2009 in Northern Ireland, all plumbing systems, water fittings and equipment supplied, or to be supplied, from the public water supply come under these regulations (byelaws). This applies to systems in all types of premises. The regulations (byelaws) apply from the point where water enters the property’s underground service pipe. Premises without a public water supply connection are not governed by these regulations.
[*The Scottish Byelaws were updated with effect from 30 August 2004]
REID DEGAS specialists
Church Street,
Stoke Newington,
London N16
Phone : 07956 122 376
e-mail : info@reiddegas.com
Support & FAQ
Question One
What are my duties as a landlord in relation to gas safety?
You have duties under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to arrange maintenance by a Gas Safe Registered engineer for all pipe work, appliances and flues, which you own and have provided for your tenants use. You must also arrange for an annual gas safety check to be carried out every 12 months by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. You must keep a record of the safety check for 2 years and issue a copy to each existing tenant within 28 days of the check being completed and issue a copy to any new tenants before they move in.
Question Two
Do I have to use a Gas Safe Registered engineer to complete gas work?
Yes. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations state that landlords must only use a Gas Safe Registered engineer for maintenance and safety checks on gas equipment they own and provide for tenants use in domestic premises. HSE advises that you check that the Gas Safe Registered engineer is competent to work in that specific area of gas. This is clearly marked on the back of the engineer's Gas Safe Register registration card.
Question Three
Can a room containing a gas appliance still be used as a bedroom?
Since 31 October 1998, any room converted to use as sleeping accommodation should not contain the following types of gas appliances:
1.A gas fire, gas space heater or a gas water heater (including a gas boiler) over 14 kilowatts gross input unless it is room sealed.
2.A gas fire, gas space heater, or a gas water heater (including a gas boiler) of 14 kilowatts gross input or less or any instantaneous water heater unless it is room sealed or has an atmosphere-sensing device.
If a room contains one or more of the above appliances and was used as a bedroom prior to 1998 then you will need to do a risk assessment to determine if it can still be used as a bedroom. If you are unsure of the safety of any gas appliance you should get a Gas Safe Registered engineer to check it for you.
Question Four
What should I do if I smell gas or I am concerned about the safety of any gas appliances?
If you suspect there is a gas leak you should immediately do the following:
Call National Grid's Gas Emergency Freephone number: 0800 111 999
Open all the doors and windows
Shut off the gas supply at the meter control valve (if you know where it is)
It is illegal for anyone to use a gas appliance if they suspect it is unsafe. Turn the appliance off and do not touch it until it has been checked by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.