ASK THE EXPERTS

Q I am preparing to sell my house and have been told that I need a certificate of compliance for my gas installations. Is this the case and what does it involve?

A Candy Bouwer, marketing and sales manager of Alcock’s Services Group, says: “Owners of fixed gas installations such as stoves, hobs, gas water heaters or even built-in gas braais are now required by law to have a valid gas certificate of conformity (CoC). This is needed to ensure that installations comply with the regulations. In the case of a sale of a property that has a gas installation, a valid CoC must be issued to the new owner. Every seller must be in possession of a valid CoC, which must be transferred to the purchaser of the property. Failure to comply could have health and safety risks and may lead to insurance claims being declined.

Gas CoCs are regulated by the Pressure Equipment Regulations made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) No 85 1993 (GG 32395, GN R734, 15 July 2009). The Occupational Health and Safety Act is commonly known to be applicable in the workplace, but is equally applicable in homes.

When having gas installed, ensure that your gas practitioner has an LP Gas Safety Association of South Africa registration card or is registered on lpgas.co.za, as they are the only people who may issue a valid CoC.

Gas appliances should be regularly serviced and safety checked as faulty gas appliances are extremely dangerous.

Visit alcocks.co.za for more information.”