Gas safety services

Your rights as a council tenant to make sure your gas appliances are safe.

Contents

Carbon monoxide awareness

One of the biggest dangers from gas, and other fossil fuel appliances, is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can be fatal. CO is invisible, tasteless and odourless and is typically produced when fuel (like gas, oil, coal, or wood) doesn’t burn properly.

It is essential to have a CO monitor installed near any appliance that can give off CO gas. You risk your health without one.

Open-flued appliances

An open-flued gas appliance draws air from the room to burn fuel. If that air supply becomes restricted or the appliance malfunctions, it can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

You could be at serious risk if:

  • you sleep in a room with an open-flued appliance, such as a gas fire or back boiler unit
  • the appliance is left on overnight while you sleep
  • the room is poorly ventilated or has a blocked flue

Warning signs

Although CO gas itself is invisible, the following can indicate the presence of CO:

  • stains, soot or discolouration around the flue
  • discolouration, scorching or other damage on the gas fire, appliance casing, or decorations
  • unusual amounts of condensation
  • orange or yellow flames
  • pilot lights that do not stay lit

Symptoms of CO poisoning

Recognising symptoms early can save lives. Common signs include:

  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • nausea or vomiting
  • breathlessness
  • collapsing and loss of consciousness
  • confusion or blurred vision

If several people in your household experience these at the same time, seek medical attention. Let them know you may have been exposed to a gas leak and evacuate the property.

Call for help

If you think you have a CO emergency:

  • contact the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999 (available 24/7 and free to call)
  • follow the advice given by the emergency operator
  • wait outside for the emergency engineer to arrive

How to protect your home

You should:

  • install CO alarms: place them near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances. Test them regularly
  • allow us to carry out an annual safety check of your gas appliances
  • keep vents clear and properly ventilated: never block chimneys, flues, or air vents
  • use appliances as intended: never use outdoor barbecues or portable heaters inside

Read our carbon monoxide safety guide (PDF, 318KB).