With the autumn moving season approaching for many UK households, experts are advising new homeowners to prioritize a crucial safety check as part of their relocation tasks.
Amid the meticulous process of packing and shifting homes, ensuring the gas safety of the new residence is emphasized as a critical step. This advice coincides with the Gas Safety week, scheduled from September 8 to 14, which aims to raise awareness about the hazards of carbon monoxide (CO) and faulty gas equipment.
BOXT’s lead engineer, Adam Knight, highlights the importance of prioritizing gas safety for movers and homeowners at this time. Knight compares checking the gas safety of a new home to the essential act of changing locks, emphasizing the significance of confirming the safety of the boiler before settling in.
Neglecting to inspect the boiler or gas fireplace can expose individuals to severe risks, such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Statistics from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reveal that around 40 individuals die annually in England and Wales due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, with 440 cases of hospitalization reported in 2022.
While homeowners bear the responsibility for gas safety, there is no legal obligation for them to service the boiler or conduct a gas safety inspection during property transactions, unlike landlords. Knight underscores that some systems may have been neglected for years, potentially posing hidden dangers such as carbon monoxide leaks that are undetectable by sight, smell, or sound.
The production of carbon monoxide occurs when fuel-burning appliances like boilers and gas fires operate inefficiently due to poor installation or maintenance. This gas, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is invisible and odorless, emphasizing the importance of taking proactive measures to safeguard one’s household.
Before finalizing any agreements, prospective homeowners are advised to inquire about key aspects of the boiler, including its installation date, last servicing date, and warranty status transfer. Additionally, considering a boiler service inclusion in the sale of a new property is recommended.
Installing an audible carbon monoxide alarm meeting European Standard EN 50291 is a simple yet crucial step that can potentially save lives. Familiarizing oneself with the location and operation of the gas supply shut-off valve is equally essential for emergency preparedness.
Despite the excitement of moving to a new home, incorporating these safety tasks into the moving checklist is strongly advised, emphasizing their life-saving potential. Knight stresses the significance of servicing the boiler upon moving in, highlighting that while it may not be a legal requirement, it remains a critical safety measure.
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