URGENT GAS SAFETY WARNING
URGENT GAS SAFETY WARNING
Jon Trickett MP has issued a warning to tenants of private independent landlords to make sure all gas equipment in their properties is safe to use. The stark warning comes after tenants at a property in the Constituency called on Jon’s help when members of their family complained of headache.
The tenants had been complaining to the agents acting for the Landlord and were told there was an appropriate certificate but were never allowed sight of it.
After Jon’s involvement the gas fire was condemned and the Health and Safety Executive have now been called in to investigate.
Jon said: “This was an extremely disturbing case and the outcome could have been very different. Tenants are not always aware of their rights and unscrupulous Landlords take advantage of this”
Every year about 20 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by appliances and flues which have not been properly installed or maintained. Many others also suffer ill health. The Law requires that Landlords ensure that all gas appliances are maintained in good order and that an annual safety check is carried out by a CORGI registered tradesman. Tenants should be issued with a record of the safety within 28 days of each annual check.
Jon Trickett said: “All tenants should make sure they have sight of the annual gas safety check and if they are getting the run around from their Landlord don’t hesitate to take the matter further. Lives can be at risk”
Jon concluded by saying: “Home owners also need to be aware and ensure their equipment is regularly checked. I have produced a fact sheet with useful information which is available from my office or on my website’
The fact-sheet is available from Jon Trickett’s Office by contacting 01977 722291 or visiting his website on www.jontrickett.org.uk.
Useful numbers in case of any concerns about gas safety are:
HSE Gas Safety Advice Line 0800 300 363
WMDC Private Sector Housing, 01977 722263
Health and Safety Executive (gas section) – 0113 283 4219/4240,
Gas Emergency (free phone) 0800 111 999
