New gas compliance standard: what homeowners should know
The updated compliance standard is now in effect. Here's what changes for existing installs and new work.
What has actually changed
The updated standard tightens the rules around gas certificates, clearances to combustible materials, and how flues must be terminated relative to windows and boundaries. It also formalises pressure test durations for new pipework.
For most homeowners nothing changes overnight, existing compliant installs stay compliant. But any new work, alteration or appliance swap now has to be certified against the new document.
Where it will show up
Replacing a continuous flow heater on an old install often triggers a flue termination check. A window or opening that was fine ten years ago may now be too close.
New hobs and cooktops need documented clearance to overhead cupboards, and rangehoods need proof of make-up air on tighter modern homes.
What to do
If you're planning a renovation, get a Certifying Gasfitter involved before the joiner sets out the cabinetry. Pipe routes, isolation valves and clearances are much cheaper to sort at framing stage than after the tiles are down.