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If a tenant won't allow access, the landlord's duty to arrange the annual gas safety check still stands, but the landlord must not force entry. Take all reasonable steps: write to the tenant more than once, explain it's a legal safety requirement, offer flexible times, and record every attempt. That paper trail is the landlord's defence.
Reviewed by Jordan Valentine-Dunn, Gas Safe registered engineer · Portsmouth Gas Heating · Last reviewed July 2026
The landlord's legal duty to have the annual gas safety check carried out doesn't go away if a tenant blocks access, but the landlord must not force entry. The way through is to take all reasonable steps to get access and to keep a clear record of every one of them.
Put the request in writing, more than once, so there's a record. A phone call alone is harder to evidence later.
Make clear the check is a legal requirement and is for the tenant's own safety, not an inconvenience or an inspection of them.
Suggest a range of appointment times, including outside normal working hours where you can, to remove practical excuses.
Keep copies of letters, emails, texts and notes of calls, with dates. This log is what protects you.
If you've taken all reasonable steps and the tenant still refuses, you can apply to a court for an injunction or an order for access; you must not force entry. Your evidence of repeated, reasonable attempts is your defence for a missed deadline. Because a court application is a legal step, it's worth taking proper advice for your situation.
Last reviewed July 2026. This guide is general information, not legal or safety advice, gas safety work must be carried out by an appropriately Gas Safe registered engineer. Rules can change, so check the linked official sources for the current position.