Why rentals need attention
The Mountains has plenty of holiday houses, short-stay cottages and long-term rentals. Guests and tenants do not know your gas setup. They may not know where the heater flue is, how to turn the gas off, or what a normal flame looks like. In winter they arrive when the heater is running hard.
A gas problem in a rental is a safety risk for the person staying and a legal and insurance problem for you. A check by a licensed gasfitter gives you a record that you took care.
What a rental gas check usually covers
A licensed gasfitter will usually look at:
- Gas heaters: flue, burner, ventilation and signs of poor combustion.
- Cooktop and oven: connections, flame, ignition and controls.
- Gas hot water: the unit, flue and connections.
- Hoses, regulators and bottles on LPG properties.
- Visible pipework and fittings.
- A test for leaks on the pipework.
- Whether gas shut-off points are easy to find and use.
Ask for a clear list in writing of what is fine, what needs repair and what is urgent.
Landlord responsibilities
Rules for residential tenancies and short-term rentals can change. Do not rely on this page for the legal detail. Check the current requirements with NSW Fair Trading, and ask your property manager. A licensed gasfitter's report is a good record to keep.
Good habits for hosts
- Have heaters checked every year before winter.
- Put the gas shut-off location in your guest guide, with a photo.
- Write down what to do if a guest smells gas. Use the steps on the smell gas page.
- Do not leave unflued portable heaters in bedrooms.
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm where practical, and check its battery.
- Keep appliance manuals or model details on hand.
Between guests
A quick look between stays can catch problems. Look for a heater that smells odd, a cooktop burner that will not light cleanly, or a bottle area full of leaves. If you smell gas, leave and call 000 from outside. For any other fault, switch the appliance off and call a gasfitter before the next guest arrives.
Properties with several appliances
If you run more than one property, say so when you ask for a quote. The plumber can tell you how the work would be handled.
Access and bookings
When you call, say how access works, such as a property manager or a key safe, and when the property is free.
Cost
The price depends on how many appliances you have and whether the property runs on mains or LPG. Ask for a quote before work starts.
Related: gas heater service and gas leak detection.
Common questions
Do Airbnb hosts need a gas check?
Rules vary, so check the current NSW requirements. A check by a licensed gasfitter is a sensible safety step regardless.
What should I give guests about gas?
Where the shut-off is, who to call, and the steps in the red box at the top of this page.
Can a property be checked while guests are away?
Mention your booking calendar when you ask for a quote and the plumber can advise.
Is a carbon monoxide alarm enough?
No. An alarm is a backup. Heaters still need servicing.
What about LPG rentals?
Yes. Ask for the bottles, regulators and hoses to be included in the check.
How much does a rental gas check cost?
It depends on the property. Ask for a quote before work starts.
Gas leak or gas appliance problem? Call a licensed gasfitter.