A Gas Safe registered engineer is the only type of engineer legally permitted to carry out gas work in the UK. Gas Safe registration replaced the former CORGI scheme in 2009 and is mandatory for anyone installing, servicing, repairing or commissioning gas boilers, cookers, fires, gas pipework and gas meters. It is a criminal offence under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to carry out gas work without Gas Safe registration. Landlords are additionally required by law to have a Gas Safety Check (CP12) carried out annually on all gas appliances by a Gas Safe registered engineer and to provide the certificate to their tenants.
What they do
- Boiler installation, replacement and commissioning
- Annual boiler service and safety check
- Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) for landlords
- Gas leak investigation, diagnosis and repair
- Gas hob, oven and range cooker installation
- Gas fire installation, service and repair
- New gas supply installation and meter connection
- Gas pipework installation, alteration and pressure testing
When you need one
Any work involving gas appliances, pipework or the gas meter must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer - no exceptions. Always check the engineer's ID card and verify their registration before work begins.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | £50 - £90/hr |
| Boiler service | £60 - £110 |
| Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) | £60 - £120 |
| New boiler installation - labour | £600 - £1,200 |
| Gas fire installation - labour | £250 - £500 |
| Emergency call-out | £80 - £160/hr |
| New gas supply connection | £300 - £600 |
Boiler costs above are labour only and exclude the boiler unit itself. A new combi boiler supply and fit typically costs £2,000-£4,500 depending on make and model. Always check the engineer's Gas Safe ID card before work begins.
Qualifications to look for
Gas Safe registration is the legal minimum for any gas work. Check the engineer's Gas Safe ID card - it shows their name, registration number, expiry date and the categories of gas work they are registered for (e.g. domestic natural gas, LPG). Verify at gassaferegister.co.uk.
Gas Safe registration is underpinned by ACS assessments - separate competence tests for each type of gas work (boilers, cookers, pipework, etc.). An engineer can only be registered for the categories they have been ACS assessed in - always check the card covers your specific job.
Every Gas Safe registered engineer carries a Gas Safe ID card. This shows their registration number, photo, expiry date and the licence to carry categories of gas work. Always ask to see the card and check it is current before allowing any gas work to proceed.
How to find a Gas Safe registered engineer
Frequently asked questions
Is it illegal to work on gas without Gas Safe registration?
Yes - it is a criminal offence under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to carry out gas work without being registered with Gas Safe. This applies to anyone working on gas boilers, cookers, fires, pipework and meters. The penalty can include a prison sentence.
How do I check if an engineer is Gas Safe registered?
Check the Gas Safe Register at gassaferegister.co.uk using the engineer's Gas Safe ID card number or their business name and postcode. All registered engineers carry a Gas Safe ID card showing their registration number, expiry date and the type of gas work they are licensed to carry out.
How often should a boiler be serviced?
An annual boiler service is recommended by most manufacturers to maintain the warranty, ensure the appliance is operating safely, and keep it running efficiently. Landlords are legally required to have gas appliances serviced annually and provide tenants with a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12).