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Gas Fire Service and Repair in London | Gas Safe Engineers

1 January 2025·5 min read

Gas Fire Service Requirements

Gas fires are notifiable appliances under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. Any Gas Safe registered engineer can service a gas fire, but the engineer should have specific experience with the type and manufacturer of your appliance.

Annual service is recommended for all gas fires — many manufacturers require it as a condition of warranty. For landlords, gas fires are covered by the annual gas safety inspection (CP12) but a separate service is additionally recommended for fires that are used regularly.

What a Gas Fire Service Includes in London

  • Checking the flame picture and combustion quality
  • Testing the flame failure device (Oxypilot or thermocouple)
  • Checking the firebox and glass for cracks or damage
  • Testing the flue draw and terminal condition
  • Checking the gas valve operation and pressure
  • Cleaning the burner and ceramic fuel effect components
  • Checking for carbon monoxide using a flue gas analyser

Common Gas Fire Faults in London

  • Pilot light not staying lit — thermocouple or Oxypilot failure
  • Fire not lighting at all — gas valve fault or ignition failure
  • Yellow or irregular flame — partially blocked burner or incorrect pressure
  • Carbon staining on fire surround — combustion problem or draught reversal
  • Gas smell from fire — failed seal or joint

Frequently asked questions

Is a gas fire included in a landlord gas safety certificate in London?

Yes — all fixed gas appliances in a rental property including gas fires must be included in the annual gas safety inspection (CP12). A gas fire that cannot be made safe must be disconnected before a satisfactory CP12 can be issued. Landlords should not allow tenants to use a gas fire that has not been included in the inspection.

Can I keep an old gas fire in my London rental property?

An old gas fire can be retained if it passes the annual gas safety inspection — the fire is safe, the flue is sound, and the flame failure device operates correctly. Many London Victorian gas fires have been in service for 30+ years and remain safe. However, if the fire fails inspection or parts are unavailable, it must be disconnected. Decorative fuel effect (DFE) gas fires from the 1990s are a common source of failures in London properties.

How much does a gas fire service cost in London?

A gas fire service in London costs £80–£130 depending on the type of fire and your location. Combining the gas fire service with the annual boiler service and gas safety certificate reduces overall cost as only one call-out charge is incurred.