This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland

If the gas appliances in your home are unsafe, you could be at risk of fire, explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Gas leaks are an emergency

If you think there may be a gas leak in your home (for example, if you smell gas) there are several things you need to do to deal with the emergency:

• Don't turn any electrical switches on or off (this includes light switches and the doorbell) and don't smoke!
• Turn off the gas supply at the meter if you can. Use a torch if there is no light in the room or cellar where your meter is located.
• Get out immediately, leaving the doors and windows open if possible for ventilation.
• Warn your neighbours.

You'll also need to report the problem:

• Call the gas emergency helpline on 0800 111 999. An engineer will come out free of charge and disconnect either the leaking appliance or the entire gas supply if necessary. If possible, they will fix the problem straight away. Otherwise, they will isolate the faulty appliance so you can't use it and turn the gas supply back on again. You'll then need to arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to come and fix the appliance.
• Report the leak to your gas supplier (for example, British Gas). 

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide gas is known as the 'silent killer' because it's invisible and has no smell. It's also very poisonous and can kill quickly. Carbon monoxide is produced when a carbon based fuel (including gas, LPG, wood and coal) doesn’t burn properly. Carbon monoxide can be produced if:

• gas appliances are not installed or maintained properly
• gas appliances are broken or not working properly
• flues or chimneys become blocked
• rooms are not adequately ventilated.

Children, elderly people, pregnant women and people with respiratory problems are particularly at risk from carbon monoxide poisoning. The symptoms of mild carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of flu, and include tiredness, headaches, nausea, chest pains, sudden faintness, erratic behaviour, diarrhoea and stomach pains. Severe poisoning can kill.

The Carbon Monoxide Kills and Gas Safe Register and NHS Direct websites have more information.

Injured by faulty gas appliances

If you are injured by a faulty gas supply or appliance (for example, if you are poisoned by carbon monoxide gas), you may be able to take legal action against your landlord, or anyone directly responsible for negligent work.

You'll need evidence. If you think you've been exposed to carbon monoxide gas, go to see a doctor immediately and ask for a blood or breath test.

Bear in mind that there are time limits. For example, if you want to sue your landlord for negligence, you must start the action within three years of being injured. Contact your local Citizens Advice, law centre or independent solicitor if you want to take action in this way.

Send us feedback

Get advice by email