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If you have ever sold a property, you will know that the most time-consuming document to complete is the Law Society’s Property Information Form (TA6). And in a recent article, I explained the danger of misleading a buyer when completing the form.
Whilst not exhaustive, the TA6 provides a purchaser with detailed information about the property, often forming the basis for further enquiries.
Central heating
Section 12.3 of the form relates to central heating, whether gas, electric or oil. In terms of gas, understandably, it’s of prime importance that you can demonstrate gas safety at your property.
Boiler Installation Certificate
Since 1 April 2005, installing any new (including replacement) gas appliance is subject to Building Regulations. That means within 30 days of installation, your Gas Safe registered installer (CORGI until 2009) must notify (self-certify) Building Control at your local authority. As the property owner, you must ensure your installer complies with this requirement.
Gas Safe must also be notified. They will then issue a compliance certificate as evidence (sometimes referred to as a ‘boiler installation certificate’) that the installation conforms to Building Regulations.
So, in short, a new gas installation should generate two documents:
- an installer’s certificate; and
- a compliance certificate issued by Gas Safe.
Annual service
Just like any appliance, gas boilers develop faults. And while not compulsory, having your boiler serviced annually is crucial. Regular servicing not only helps to keep the appliance working efficiently but also potentially saves lives. In the decade to 2020, over one hundred people a year died of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales.
Therefore, expect your buyer to request evidence of your boiler’s service history in addition to the installation certificates.
Missing documents
Sometimes, boiler documentation goes missing. But you can order a replacement from Gas Safe for compliance certificates issued from 1 April 2009. For certificates issued between 1 April 2005 and 31 March 2009, you must approach CORGI.
Very occasionally, there’s no evidence of Building Regulations compliance for boilers caught by the 2005 regulations. In that case, you will almost certainly need to discuss taking out an insurance policy with your conveyancing solicitor. The policy indemnifies your buyer against the cost of any enforcement action by the local authority.
Unfortunately, in this situation, you cannot provide the usual assurance that comes with a compliance certificate. However, an up-to-date gas service record should at least reassure your buyer that the appliance is safe to use.
As boiler servicing is not compulsory, there’s no requirement for a seller to provide service records. However, in the spirit of openness, you should always disclose them.
You should also inform your solicitor of any other gas appliances at the property. And always make your solicitor aware of any concerns about gas appliances.