How Long Does a Gas Safety Check Take

A standard gas safety check in a typical UK home usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the number and type of gas appliances installed. The duration can vary depending on how many appliances need inspecting, how accessible they are, and whether any faults or safety concerns are found during the visit.

For most homes, a gas safety check involves assessing one to three main appliances — usually the boiler, gas hob or cooker, and possibly a gas fire. In a property with multiple appliances or more complex systems, the check may take longer. If an issue is identified that requires repair or further testing, this could extend the appointment beyond the standard time.

What Happens During the Check

During a gas safety check, a Gas Safe registered engineer will carry out a visual inspection and functional test of each gas appliance. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring proper ventilation, examining the condition of flues and chimneys, and verifying that the appliances are burning gas safely and efficiently. The engineer will also test the pressure of the gas supply and may use specialist tools to detect carbon monoxide or confirm safe operation.

If the check is part of a combined service and inspection visit, such as a boiler service with a full gas safety review, the visit may take closer to an hour or slightly longer. This depends on how thorough the servicing is and how long each appliance takes to assess.

What You Need to Do Before the Appointment

To help the check go smoothly and minimise delays, make sure the engineer has easy access to all gas appliances, meters, and pipework. Clear the area around your boiler, cooker, and any gas fires. If your boiler is in a cupboard, remove any stored items that might block access. If the gas meter is in a box outside, ensure it’s not locked or obstructed.

Providing any previous service records or safety certificates can also help the engineer build a clearer picture of the system’s history. If you’ve recently moved into the property or are having a first-time check done, it’s a good opportunity to ask questions about your appliances and how to maintain them safely.

After the Safety Check

Once the inspection is complete, the engineer will let you know whether everything meets the required safety standards. If you’ve requested it, they may provide a Gas Safety Record summarising what was checked and confirming that the appliances are safe to use. If any issues are found, the engineer will explain what needs to be fixed and whether further action is required before the system can be declared safe.

Even though homeowners are not legally required to hold a gas safety certificate, having one after a check can be useful for insurance purposes or when selling a home. Landlords, on the other hand, must receive this documentation by law and provide it to tenants within 28 days.

Factors That Can Extend the Duration

While most checks fall within the 30–60 minute range, certain situations can make the visit longer. If the engineer encounters restricted access to appliances, missing documentation, or signs of wear and tear that require closer inspection, the appointment may take more time. Older appliances, in particular, may need more detailed checks due to age-related issues, such as corroded pipework, blocked flues, or low gas pressure.

In rental properties with multiple gas fires or secondary heating systems, the check may also take longer simply due to the number of appliances that must be tested and recorded individually. Similarly, if the engineer identifies a fault, they may take extra time to make it safe, disconnect the appliance, or advise on next steps — which could include scheduling a return visit for repair work.

Combined Appointments and Extra Services

Many engineers offer combined appointments that include a boiler service and a gas safety check in one visit. This is a practical option for homeowners who want peace of mind and better efficiency from their heating system. A full boiler service typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour on its own, so if combined with a gas safety check across multiple appliances, the visit may last over an hour.

For landlords, especially those managing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), a safety check may take longer due to the number of installations and legal documentation required. The engineer must also complete the Landlord Gas Safety Record and provide a copy for both the landlord and the tenant.

When an Engineer May Need to Return

If an appliance cannot be tested during the visit — for example, if the gas meter is inaccessible, the boiler is locked away, or a flue terminal is obstructed — the engineer may need to reschedule. This is not common, but it can happen, particularly during winter when snow or debris blocks outdoor flue access.

Likewise, if a part is found to be unsafe and needs replacing, the engineer may carry out an initial safety disconnection and arrange to return with the required part. In these cases, the initial check still provides valuable information, but full clearance won’t be given until follow-up work is completed.

Why It’s Worth Allowing Extra Time

Although the gas safety check itself might not take more than an hour, it's sensible to allow a window of time in case the appointment runs longer than expected. This avoids the need to rush the engineer, ensures a proper inspection, and gives you the chance to ask questions about your system — such as how to spot early signs of a problem, how to check the pressure gauge, or how often different appliances should be serviced.

Gas safety should never be rushed. Giving the engineer the time and access they need allows for a more thorough inspection and improves the long-term safety and reliability of your gas supply and appliances.

What’s Included in a Gas Safety Check?

A gas safety check involves a thorough inspection of all gas appliances, pipework, flues, and ventilation systems within the property to ensure they are operating safely and in line with current regulations. A Gas Safe registered engineer will visually examine each appliance to look for signs of damage, corrosion, or incorrect installation. They will test that the appliances are burning gas correctly, that there is adequate airflow and ventilation, and that harmful gases like carbon monoxide are being safely expelled through the flue. The engineer will also check the gas meter and pipework for leaks using a pressure test and confirm that any safety devices — such as flame failure controls — are functioning as they should. Once the check is complete, they will provide verbal feedback, and if requested, a written record detailing the results. If anything is unsafe or needs attention, the engineer will explain the issue and advise on the next steps to make the appliance or installation safe.

Final Word

A gas safety check doesn’t take long — usually under an hour — but it plays a crucial role in keeping your home safe. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for peace of mind or a landlord meeting your legal responsibilities, booking an annual check with a Gas Safe registered engineer ensures that your gas appliances are operating safely and efficiently. With just a bit of preparation, the process is straightforward and can save you from much bigger problems down the line.