As autumn approaches, many families in the UK are gearing up for a house move. Experts emphasize the importance of including a crucial safety check on the moving to-do list for new homeowners.
Amidst the hustle of packing and relocating, ensuring the safety of gas in the new residence should be a top concern. This advice coincides with Gas Safety week, observed from September 8 to 14, aimed at raising awareness about the risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) and faulty gas equipment.
Adam Knight, a lead engineer at BOXT, suggests that now is the perfect opportunity for both movers and homeowners to prioritize gas safety. He compares checking the gas safety of a new home to a vital task like changing locks on a new car, stressing the importance of verifying the safety of the boiler before settling in.
Overlooking the inspection of the boiler or gas fire can expose individuals to severe dangers, such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Statistics from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reveal that around 40 people annually lose their lives due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales, with 440 individuals hospitalized in 2022 alone.
Knight highlights that while the responsibility for gas safety lies with homeowners, it is not a legal requirement for them to service a boiler or conduct a gas safety inspection during property transactions. This lack of mandatory checks means that some systems may not have been adequately examined for years, potentially harboring hidden dangers like carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is a byproduct of improperly functioning fuel-burning appliances like boilers and gas fires due to faulty installation or inadequate maintenance. Despite its invisible, odorless, and tasteless nature, taking proactive steps can make your home safer for your family.
Before finalizing any agreements, it is essential to inquire about key details regarding the boiler, including the installation date, last servicing date, and warranty status. Opting for a new boiler could also provide an opportunity to negotiate a boiler service as part of the sale.
Installing an audible carbon monoxide alarm meeting European Standard EN 50291 is a cost-effective measure that could potentially save lives. Additionally, every homeowner should be familiar with how to shut off the gas supply in case of an emergency, typically identified by a large, brass lever or handle near the gas meter.
While moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, incorporating these additional safety tasks into your checklist is crucial for safeguarding lives. Knight emphasizes that despite the absence of a legal mandate, servicing the boiler upon moving in is a critical step that should not be overlooked for the safety of occupants.