What To Do If You Smell Gas in Your Rented Home (England)

If you smell gas in your rented home in England, it’s important to act calmly but quickly. Gas leaks are a serious risk to health and safety, and all tenants are entitled to live in a property that’s safe and free from hazards. This guide explains the steps you should take, your legal rights, and where to get help if your landlord isn’t taking action.

What to Do Immediately If You Smell Gas

If you suspect a gas leak in your rental, follow these urgent steps:

• Do not use electrical switches or naked flames.
• Open all doors and windows to let gas escape.
• Shut off the gas supply at the main meter if possible (unless your meter is in a basement/cellar or you would feel unsafe).
• Leave the property and move to a safe location.
• Call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999 (24 hours).

Your Landlord’s Responsibilities Under the Law

Landlords in England must keep the property safe under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. This includes:

• Annual gas safety checks by a registered Gas Safe engineer.
• Repairing faulty gas appliances, pipes, or supplies.
• Providing a valid Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) every 12 months.

The certificate must be given to new tenants before they move in and within 28 days of each annual check for existing tenants¹.

Reporting Gas Safety Issues to Your Landlord

After calling the emergency service, inform your landlord or letting agent right away:

• Provide details of the situation, any advice from the emergency engineer, and ask for written confirmation of what action will be taken.
• If repairs aren’t carried out, keep records of all communication.

If your landlord fails to act, you have the right to report unsafe housing to the local council’s Environmental Health department.

How to Report Unsafe Conditions to the Council

Environmental Health at your council can inspect your property, assess hazards, and order your landlord to fix dangerous conditions using their powers under the Housing Act 2004. You can use their online reporting forms or contact them directly. Find your council using the government’s tool.

Official Form: HHSRS Complaint to Environmental Health

• Form Name: Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) complaint form (no standard national form, each council provides their own)
• When to Use: If your landlord will not deal with a gas leak or other hazardous conditions
• How to Use: Complete the online form or write a detailed email/letter describing the leak, including when you notified your landlord, any evidence (photos, engineer reports), and copies of correspondence.
• Official Source: GOV.UK: Repairs in rented housing

It is illegal for a landlord to rent out a property with unsafe gas appliances. Local authorities can take enforcement action if risks are not properly managed.

Your Rights as a Renter

You have the right to live in a property that is safe from immediate hazards, including gas leaks. Landlords who fail to meet their gas safety obligations can face fines, enforcement notices, and criminal charges. If your council issues an enforcement notice and your landlord disputes it, the matter may be referred to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property) in England.

What to Do If You're Worried About Retaliation

It is unlawful for your landlord to evict you simply because you’ve reported a gas leak or other safety issue; this is known as a ‘retaliatory eviction’. If you’re concerned about eviction, read official advice about eviction processes and consider speaking to a free advice service for renters for support.

FAQ: Gas Leaks and Renters in England

1. What is the first thing I should do if I smell gas in my rental?
   Leave the property, open doors and windows if safe to do so, and immediately call the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999.
2. Does my landlord have to provide gas safety certificates?
   Yes. Landlords must provide a Gas Safety Certificate every year and give a copy to tenants within 28 days of the check.
3. What if my landlord refuses to repair a gas leak?
   Report the issue to your local council’s Environmental Health department. They can order your landlord to make urgent repairs.
4. Should I contact the council before or after calling the gas emergency line?
   Always call the gas emergency line first for immediate safety. Then inform your landlord and the council as needed.
5. Can my landlord evict me for reporting a gas leak?
   No, retaliatory eviction is unlawful. Seek advice if you feel threatened with eviction after making a safety complaint.

Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Renters

• Your safety comes first: leave and call the emergency number if you smell gas.
• Landlords must maintain safe gas appliances and provide annual Gas Safety Certificates.
• If your landlord won’t act, you can involve your local council or tribunal for help.

Always put your health and safety before anything else. Recording your actions and communicating clearly with your landlord helps protect your rights as a tenant in England.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK: Gas safety in rented homes
• National Gas Emergency Service – 0800 111 999 (24/7)
• GOV.UK: Repairs in rented housing
• Find your local council
• Renters in dispute with landlords about safety can appeal via the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property)

1. Source: Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
2. Source: Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11
3. Source: Housing Act 2004: Housing Health and Safety Rating System
4. Source: Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
5. Source: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property)