Gas Safety & Certification

Carbon Monoxide Investigation

A carbon monoxide investigation checks whether a gas appliance, flue or ventilation issue could be producing unsafe fumes. A Gas Safe registered engineer tests, inspects and diagnoses the cause, then explains what needs to happen next to make the property safe and compliant.

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What a carbon monoxide investigation covers

This service is designed to identify whether carbon monoxide is being produced or entering living or working areas, and why. Your engineer will focus on safety first, then provide clear, actionable findings.

  • Targeted checks of the appliance(s) linked to the concern (boiler, fire, cooker or other gas appliance)
  • Inspection of flues, terminals and signs of spillage or poor draw
  • Testing for combustion issues and potential carbon monoxide risk
  • Assessment of ventilation and air supply to the appliance
  • Checks for faults, incorrect set-up, blockages or deterioration
  • Advice on immediate safety steps and the most effective repair options
  • Written summary of findings and recommended remedial work where appropriate

When this service is most relevant

Book a carbon monoxide investigation if you have any concerns about fumes or combustion safety, especially if:

  • A carbon monoxide alarm has sounded or you suspect it is triggering incorrectly
  • Anyone has headaches, dizziness or nausea that improves when leaving the property
  • You notice sooting, staining, yellow flames or unusual smells near an appliance
  • There is excessive condensation, poor ventilation or a recently altered flue area
  • Tenants have raised concerns and you need an independent, safety-led assessment

If you believe there is an immediate danger, stop using the appliance, ventilate the area and seek urgent assistance.

How the investigation is carried out

The visit starts with a short set of questions about the symptoms, alarms and which appliances are in use. The engineer then inspects the appliance and its flue route, checks ventilation, and carries out relevant tests using approved equipment.

If an appliance is found to be unsafe, it may need to be turned off and labelled to prevent use until repaired. You will be talked through the results in plain English, along with the safest next steps.

What happens after the investigation

You will receive a clear explanation of what was found and what action is required. If remedial work is needed, you can proceed with targeted repairs rather than guesswork.

Where appropriate, you can also request any relevant Gas Safe documentation linked to the work carried out or the safety status of the appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a carbon monoxide investigation different from a boiler service?
Yes. A service is routine maintenance, while an investigation is fault finding focused on safety concerns, alarms or symptoms. The tests and checks are chosen to identify the cause of suspected CO risk.
What if you find an appliance is unsafe?
If it is classified as unsafe, the engineer may need to turn it off and label it to prevent use. You will be told exactly why, what needs repairing, and what options you have to restore safe operation.
Do you need to be Gas Safe registered to carry out this work?
Yes. Carbon monoxide concerns linked to gas appliances involve regulated gas safety work. A Gas Safe registered engineer is required to test, diagnose and confirm the safety status of the installation.
Can you investigate if my CO alarm has not gone off?
Yes. Alarms are important, but they do not cover every scenario and may not trigger in early or intermittent conditions. If you have symptoms, visible signs, or concerns about an appliance, an investigation is still sensible.
How should I prepare for the visit?
Ensure safe access to the appliance, meter and any flue route where possible, and let the engineer know what has happened and when. If an alarm has sounded, keep it available and note any readings or messages shown.

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