Short answer: You must not force entry. HSE says landlords must show they took all reasonable steps to get the check done. Inspectors look for at least three attempts, a notice left after each missed visit, and a record of all correspondence with the tenant. Put access arrangements in the tenancy agreement and keep trying to book.
Most London tenants are happy to let a gas engineer in, especially if the visit is arranged around their work. But busy schedules, worries about strangers, or a breakdown in the landlord tenant relationship can all lead to missed visits. When that happens, the law expects you to keep trying and keep records.
What HSE says
The HSE landlord and letting agent FAQ covers this directly. It says:
- You must not use force to enter the property.
- A landlord has to show they took all reasonable steps to comply with the law.
- You should leave the tenant a notice stating that an attempt was made to complete the gas safety check.
- A record should be kept of all correspondence with the tenant.
- HSE inspectors will look for at least three attempts to complete the check.
- Whether the action taken was reasonable is for a court to decide, based on the circumstances.
HSE also recommends including access arrangements in the tenancy agreement.
A practical step by step
1. Book early
Use the two month early window. Since 2018, the check can be done up to two months before it is due while keeping the original expiry date. That leaves time for a missed appointment or two. Our post on renewing early explains the rule.
2. Explain why
Write to the tenant explaining the visit is a legal safety check, what the engineer will do, how long it takes, and that it protects them from gas leaks and carbon monoxide. Many refusals come from not knowing what the visit is for.
3. Offer choices
Offer a few dates and times, including early mornings or a Saturday if the engineer can do it. Ask if a neighbour or friend could let the engineer in.
4. Confirm in writing
Once a time is agreed, confirm it by email or text and send a reminder the day before.
5. If the visit is missed
Ask the engineer to note the attempt. Leave a dated notice at the property saying an attempt was made. Write to the tenant again offering new dates.
6. Keep a log
| Date | What you did | Response |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Sept | Letter explaining the check, three dates offered | No reply |
| 8 Sept | Text and email reminder | Agreed 15 Sept |
| 15 Sept | Engineer attended, no answer, notice left | |
| 16 Sept | Letter with new dates |
Keep copies of every message, letter and notice.
7. Keep going
Three attempts is what HSE inspectors look for as a minimum. Keep offering access until the check is done.
Working through a lettings agent
In Fulham, where many lets are agent managed, the agent usually handles access. Check your management agreement covers chasing access and keeping the log. If the agent holds keys, they still need the tenant’s agreement to enter. Our Fulham area page covers the lettings there.
What about the tenant’s safety?
If a tenant refuses access and you are worried about a gas appliance, explain the risk in writing. Carbon monoxide has no smell. Make sure a carbon monoxide alarm is fitted in any room used as living accommodation with a fixed combustion appliance, which has been the law for landlords in England since 1 October 2022. See our post on carbon monoxide alarm rules.
If a tenant reports a gas smell, they should call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 straight away.
Combining the visit
If you do get access, use it well. Book a full boiler service at the same time as the gas safety check so you do not need a second visit for the warranty. See the landlord service and CP12 page.
Tips that help in London
- Flat shares. In shared flats, one tenant may be willing even if another is not. Contact all of them.
- Gas meters. In converted houses, meters are often in a shared hall or a front garden box. Tell the engineer where yours is.
- Concierge blocks. In newer blocks, register the engineer with the concierge in advance.
- Hidden flues. If the boiler flue runs through a ceiling void, ask the tenant to clear furniture from under the hatches.
What to put in the tenancy agreement
HSE recommends including access arrangements in the tenancy agreement. A clear clause saying the tenant will allow access for the yearly gas safety check and servicing, with reasonable notice, sets expectations from the start and helps show you took reasonable steps later.
After the check
Send the tenant a copy of the record within 28 days. Keep your log of access attempts with the record. If an inspector or court ever asks, you have everything in one place.
Gas work in the UK must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Ask for the engineer’s ID card and check it on the Gas Safe Register.
Quick questions
Can I use my key to let the engineer in?
Not without the tenant's agreement. HSE says you must not use force to enter. Check your tenancy agreement for access terms.
How many attempts should I make?
HSE inspectors look for at least three attempts, alongside notices and a record of correspondence.
Does the record still expire if I cannot get in?
Yes. The record runs 12 months from the last check. Keep trying and keep evidence of every attempt.
Last updated 23 October 2026. Written for homes in London. Rules can change, so check the linked sources for the latest position.