The importance of regular checks and maintenance of gas appliances should not be underestimated. Badly fitted and poorly serviced appliances can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning and even death.
By looking for a letting agent which is Gas Safe, landlords and tenants can be confident that gas appliances rented properties are checked annually and regularly maintained by registered engineers.
NALS licensed firms have already pledged their commitment to consumer protection. They must meet defined standards of customer service, be part of a Client Money Protection Scheme and have a customer complaints procedure in place offering complainants independent redress.
Now NALS is supporting Gas Safety Week, in its aims to raise awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances.
Isobel Thomson, NALS chief executive, says:
“Proper gas maintenance can be a matter of life and death. Carbon monoxide can kill, as well as cause serious long term health problems such as brain damage. The safety of all of our tenants is a fundamental concern for us and we are committed to ensuring that all of our properties meet safety standards. We are therefore proud to support Gas Safety Week.”
Tenants can be gas safe in their homes by following these tips:
• Look out for warning signs that your gas appliances aren’t working correctly e.g. lazy yellow or orange flames instead of crisp blue ones, black marks on or around the appliance and too much condensation in the room
• Know the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness
• Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm
• If you smell gas call the gas emergency number on 0800 111 999
