My previous landlord (private..3 properties) took 2 months to provide me with a certificate. told me he had one, but when we moved in, (out of necessity), it wasn't forthcoming. He told me he had mislaid the certificate when I asked him to produce it. I said I wanted proof or I would make an official complaint. Pointed out he was risking a massive fine or even a prison sentence. He then got someone to come round, and both gas fires were condemned.
We already knew the boiler was safe, as the day we moved in we had a leak, and a guy came round and said he had fitted that, so we had just been using hot water - luckily it was summer. The same guy did the gas check, and said the landlord wouldn't spend anything unless forced into it.
Not all private landlords are bad, as not all agencies are bad. I know some, who shall remain unnamed have a bad rep. I seem to have found a good one now, touch wood. Morris property management, in case any one is interested.
PS, anyone interested in renting 2 Horne St, Accrington, if it is advertised, steer well clear! we even had to repair our own stair steps.
