What is a CP42 Gas Certificate? Everything Commercial Kitchen Owners Need to Know in 2025

Running a commercial kitchen? Then you already know gas safety isn’t just important… it’s the law.

Running a commercial kitchen comes with a long list of responsibilities – from keeping your appliances in working order to making sure every plate leaves the pass safely. But when it comes to gas safety, there’s one thing you cannot overlook: the CP42 Gas Certificate.

Whether you run a restaurant, café, school kitchen or catering van, understanding what this certification is – and why it’s legally required – will save you from costly fines, downtime and even dangerous gas incidents.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a CP42 Gas Certificate is, who needs one, why it matters and Catercall year-on-year.

What Is a CP42 Gas Certificate?

A CP42 Gas Safety Certificate is an official document confirming that all gas appliances, pipework and extraction systems in a commercial catering environment have been checked and certified as safe by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

In simple terms: The CP42 is your proof that your kitchen’s gas system is operating safely and meets UK legal standards.

CP42 vs CP12 – What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get confused between gas safety certificates. The CP12 is for domestic properties (like homes and flats), while the CP42 applies specifically to commercial kitchens – such as restaurants, takeaways, hotels and school canteens.

If you use gas-powered cooking equipment in a commercial setting, you need a valid CP42 certificate.

Who Needs a CP42 Gas Safety Certificate?

If you own, manage or rent a commercial kitchen in the UK, you’re legally required to hold a valid CP42 Gas Safety Certificate.

This includes:

• Restaurants and cafés
• Hotels and pubs
• School and hospital kitchens
• Food trucks and mobile catering units
• Takeaways and commercial canteens

Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, it’s your responsibility – as the owner, landlord or facilities manager – to ensure all gas appliances are safe and properly maintained.

Tip: Even if your premises are temporarily closed, you still need a valid CP42 certificate before reopening to the public.

Why Is a CP42 Certificate So Important? (Legal & Safety Implications)

Gas safety isn’t optional. The CP42 certificate exists to protect your staff, your customers, and your business.

Here’s why it matters:

1. It’s a Legal Requirement

Operating without a valid CP42 certificate is a criminal offence. Businesses can face hefty fines, insurance invalidation or even forced closure for non-compliance.

2. It Protects Lives

A CP42 inspection checks there are no gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks or ventilation failures. All of which could have life-threatening consequences.

3. It Keeps Your Insurance Valid

Most commercial insurance providers require proof of an up-to-date CP42 certificate before they’ll process claims related to fire, gas or equipment damage.

4. It Minimises Downtime

A small issue caught early during inspection can prevent a much bigger (and more expensive) breakdown later.

What Does a CP42 Gas Inspection Cover?

A CP42 inspection is a thorough safety check carried out by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. During the visit, they’ll assess every part of your kitchen’s gas system, including:

• Appliances: ovens, fryers, grills, burners and boilers
• Pipework: pressure tests and leak checks
• Ventilation & extraction: ensuring airflow and flue systems work effectively
• Safety controls: emergency shut-off valves and isolation points
• General condition: making sure all equipment is properly maintained

If the engineer identifies any issues, they’ll provide a warning notice and advice on what needs to be repaired before the certificate can be issued.

How long does a CP42 Gas Inspection take?

Most CP42 inspections take 1–2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen.

How Often Do You Need to Renew a CP42 Certificate?

Your CP42 Gas Safety Certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. After that, it must be renewed to stay compliant.

Even if you’ve replaced equipment or moved premises, you’ll still need a new inspection. Annual renewals make sure your appliances continue to meet the latest safety standards.

Pro tip: Catercall offers annual service contracts that include automatic CP42 renewals, so you’ll never have to worry about missing a deadline again.

How to Get a CP42 Gas Certificate: Step-by-Step

Getting your CP42 certificate is quick and straightforward when you work with a trusted commercial gas safety provider like Catercall.

Step 1: Book Your Inspection

Contact a Gas Safe registered engineer company, like Catercall, to schedule your CP42 inspection at a time that suits your kitchen’s operations.

Step 2: On-Site Inspection and Assessment

A qualified Gas Safe registered engineer will inspect your gas appliances, pipework and ventilation systems.

Step 3: Receive Your CP42 Gas Certificate

Once everything passes inspection, you’ll receive your CP42 Gas Certificate, digitally or as a printed document, for your insurance or compliance records.

Step 4: Stay Compliant Year-Round & Schedule Reminders for Next Year

Many commercial catering service providers, such as Catercall, can remind you before your certificate expires and help with ongoing maintenance or repairs throughout the year.

Book your CP42 Gas Inspection with Catercall today and stay compliant with confidence.

Stay Safe, Stay Compliant, Stay Cooking with Catercall

Gas safety compliance isn’t just another box to tick, it’s a vital part of protecting your business, your team and your customers.

By having a valid CP42 Gas Certificate, you’re not only meeting legal requirements but also demonstrating your commitment to safety and professionalism.

At Catercall, we make that process simple, transparent and hassle-free, from inspections and repairs to annual servicing.

Don’t risk downtime or fines, book your CP42 Gas Safety Inspection with Catercall today and keep your kitchen running safely and smoothly.

Why Choose Catercall for Your CP42 Gas Certification?

With over 20 years of experience supporting commercial kitchens across the UK, Catercall is one of the nation’s most trusted names in gas safety and catering equipment maintenance.

Here’s why businesses rely on us year after year:

• Fully qualified Gas Safe registered engineers
• Fast response times and nationwide coverage
• Flexible appointments to minimise kitchen disruption
• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
• Comprehensive aftercare and maintenance plans

Whether you need a one-off CP42 inspection or ongoing commercial kitchen servicing, Catercall has the expertise to keep your business safe, efficient and compliant.

Call us today or send an enquiry through our contact form to book your CP42 gas safety inspection.