When it comes to maintaining the safety and performance of your gas appliances, two terms are often mentioned: boiler service and Gas Safety Certificate. While both relate to gas safety, they serve different purposes and are often confused. At Citywide Plumbers, we understand the importance of clarity, especially when it involves the safety of your home or rental property. Here, we break down the essential differences and explain how each service plays a vital role.
What Is a Boiler Service?
A boiler service is a thorough check and maintenance procedure conducted on your boiler to ensure it’s operating safely, efficiently, and reliably. Our experienced engineers at Citywide Plumbers recommend having your boiler serviced annually.
What’s included in a boiler service?
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Visual inspection of the boiler and surrounding pipework
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Cleaning of key components like the burner, heat exchanger, and condensate trap
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Checking for carbon monoxide leaks
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Testing flue emissions
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Ensuring correct gas pressure and flow
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Inspection of safety devices and controls
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Advice on efficiency and usage
The main aim is preventive maintenance—to catch issues early and avoid costly breakdowns in the winter months. A regular boiler service also helps preserve the manufacturer’s warranty in most cases.
What Is a Gas Safety Certificate?
A Gas Safety Certificate, also known as a CP12, is a legal document issued after a full inspection of all gas appliances, pipework, flues, and fittings in a property. It is a mandatory requirement for landlords in the UK who rent out residential or commercial premises.
At Citywide Plumbers, our Gas Safe registered engineers carry out these inspections to the highest standards and issue the certificate upon successful checks.
What does the Gas Safety Certificate involve?
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Inspection of all gas appliances (e.g., boiler, cooker, fire)
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Checking appliance location and ventilation
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Ensuring flues and chimneys are not blocked
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Verifying appliance pressure and safety devices
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Confirming no gas leaks or unsafe installations
The certificate is valid for 12 months, and landlords must provide a copy to existing and new tenants. Even homeowners can benefit from this inspection for peace of mind.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature |
Boiler Service |
Gas Safety Certificate |
| Purpose |
Preventive maintenance |
Legal safety compliance |
| Required By Law? |
No (recommended annually) |
Yes (mandatory for landlords) |
| Scope |
Single boiler inspection & tune-up |
All gas appliances & pipework inspected |
| Duration |
Typically 45–60 minutes |
30–90 minutes depending on appliances |
| Outcome |
Service report |
CP12 Certificate issued |
| Provider |
Gas Safe Registered Engineer |
Gas Safe Registered Engineer |
Which One Do You Need?
Homeowners: While you’re not legally required to have a Gas Safety Certificate unless you rent out the property, a boiler service is strongly advised to ensure heating and hot water operate effectively throughout the year.
Landlords: You must have a valid Gas Safety Certificate renewed annually, but we also recommend booking a boiler service at the same time to avoid future repairs.
Why Choose Citywide Plumbers?
At Citywide Plumbers, we specialise in both boiler servicing and issuing Gas Safety Certificates across London. We’re Gas Safe registered, fully insured, and committed to delivering honest, timely, and expert service.
Whether you’re looking to extend your boiler’s lifespan or stay compliant with legal regulations, our qualified team is ready to help.
Conclusion
While both a boiler service and a Gas Safety Certificate involve gas appliances, they’re not the same. One is about proactive care, and the other about legal safety assurance. At Citywide Plumbers, we deliver both with professionalism and integrity. Trust your home or rental to the experts who put your safety first—Citywide Plumbers.
Book with Confidence
Don't leave your safety to chance. Schedule your boiler service or request a Gas Safety Certificate today. Contact us at:
02038928545
info@citywideplumbers.co.uk