Gas Inspections: Essential Questions
Gas inspections are not just a legal duty; they are a crucial for ensuring safety. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of gas inspections, identify who is qualified to perform them, and discuss the serious consequences of neglecting this essential responsibility. Finally, we’ll provide a guide to scheduling inspections, helping you maintain legal compliance and potentially increase the value of your property.
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Legal Responsibilities
Gas inspections are a legal requirement, and the responsibility for them can vary depending on the situation. In individual units, the property owner is responsible for ensuring that the inspection is carried out. However, if the unit is leased, this responsibility can be transferred to the tenant if specified in the lease agreement. For common areas of a building, the condominium administration is responsible for making sure that inspections are performed.
Types
Scheduling your gas inspection is a simple process that you can’t ignore. Here’s how to begin:
Identify the Need: The first thing you need to know is what type of inspection is required. If your gas installation was carried out before August 21, 2018, the first inspection must be carried out by August 26, 2028, or when the installation turns 20 years old, whichever comes first. If the installation was carried out after this date, the first inspection must be conducted 10 years after the installation date.
Frequency of Inspections: Periodic inspections must be conducted every 5 years. If there is a gas leak, supply interruption, or any major change to the gas installation, an extraordinary inspection is necessary.
Choose an Inspection Entity: The inspection can only be performed by gas inspection entities (EIG) accredited by the Portuguese Institute of Quality and authorized by the General Directorate of Energy and Geology (DGEG).
Schedule
The inspection frequency varies depending on the installation date:
- For gas installations completed before August 21, 2018, the first periodic inspection must be conducted by August 26, 2028, or when the installation reaches 20 years of age, whichever comes first.
- For gas installations completed after August 21, 2018, the first periodic inspection should be conducted 10 years after the installation date.
- Subsequent periodic inspections should be carried out every 5 years.
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Who Can Perform a Gas Inspection
The inspection can only be performed by gas inspection entities (EIG) accredited by the Portuguese Institute of Quality and authorized by the General Directorate of Energy and Geology (DGEG).
You can find a list of accredited gas inspection entities here: https://www.dgeg.gov.pt/pt/areas-setoriais/energia/combustiveis/entidades-e-profissionais/entidades-inspetoras-de-gas-eig/
Consequences for Failure of Periodic Inspection
If the periodic inspection is not performed on time, the gas supply may be cut off. Should you receive a notice from the DGEC to schedule the overdue inspection within three months and fail to comply, your gas supplier will be notified and may proceed to cut off your supply. It is crucial to understand the importance of gas inspections for both safety and legal compliance.
How To Schedule
Scheduling your gas inspection is a simple process that you can’t ignore. To begin:
- Identify the need: The first thing you need to know is what type of inspection is required. If your gas installation was carried out before 08/21/2018, the first inspection must be carried out by 08/26/2028, or when the installation turns 20 years old, whichever comes first. If installation was carried out after this date, the first inspection must be carried out 10 years after installation.
- Frequency of inspections: Periodic inspections must be carried out every 5 years. If there is a gas leak, supply interruption, or any major change to the gas installation, an extraordinary inspection is necessary.
- Choose an inspection entity: The inspection can only be carried out by gas inspection entities (EIG) accredited by the Portuguese Institute of Quality and authorized by the General Directorate of Energy and Geology (DGEG).
Increase in Property Value
Having an up-to-date and well-maintained gas system adds significant value to your property. Buyers usually look for homes with a strong record of regular maintenance, including compliance with safety regulations such as annual gas inspections.
Caution! If the inspection is not carried out on time, the gas supply may be cut off. If you receive a message from the DGEC to schedule an overdue inspection within three months and fail to do so, your gas supplier will be notified and may cut off your supply. Ensuring timely inspections is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance.
Conclusion
Carrying out gas inspections in condominiums is a fundamental measure to ensure safety, comply with the law, and protect the value of the property. Not neglecting this crucial responsibility is essential for maintaining the safety and well-being of all residents and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. Regularly scheduling inspections demonstrates responsibility and care for the community.
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