The Mortgage Works (TMW) is offering its new buy-to-let borrowers a free gas safety check provided by British Gas upon mortgage completion.

The inspection will check the property’s gas boiler and its pipe-work plus an additional two gas appliances.

Landlords are legally required to have their gas appliances checked annually and to be able to evidence it through a Landlord Gas Safety Record (CP12). With the new initiative, customers will receive details in their offer pack and their first annual check will be undertaken by British Gas at no cost.

After the visit, the CP12 can be emailed or posted online for the landlord to view.

Henry Jordan, TMW’s managing director, said: “Landlords are required to carry out gas safety checks to ensure a safe living environment to their tenants. By partnering with British Gas we are helping TMW buy-to-let borrowers meet these important responsibilities simply and cost effectively.

“Providing practical support for our buy-to-let customers in this way not only helps them to meet their obligations, it also helps support a safe and sustainable private rental sector. As a responsible lender, we continue to develop innovative solutions that make a positive impact on both landlords and their tenants.”

Kay Boycott, director of campaigns and policy at Shelter, added: “It’s shocking to think that there are accidents waiting to happen because a simple safety check hasn’t taken place. England’s nine million renters need to know that their home won’t put their health at risk, so it’s good news that The Mortgage Works and British Gas will be helping to make more homes safe.

“Coming after the news that TMW has allowed landlords to let their properties with longer, family-friendly tenancies, it’s encouraging to see TMW taking these steps towards making rented homes into better places to live.”