STUDENTS moving into Southampton this year are being reminded to check that their landlords have made sure all gas appliances in the house are safe.

Almost 1,000 injuries and 20 deaths have been caused by poor gas safety in homes over the past three years across the country, prompting the warning to students to check their accommodation is safe.

Landlords have a legal requirement to ensure gas appliances are safe and receive a yearly gas safety record, a copy of which must be given to the tenant. From October, landlords must also install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in their properties.

Students often suffer poor treatment by landlords due to their lack of experience in the property market. Cost, location or size are often prioritised over safety, according to John Thompson, Chief Executive at the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors.

Student tenants are reminded that the symptoms of CO poisoning can be similar to a hangover or flu. If a landlord refuses to properly service and check appliances the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors advises tenants to ring the Health and Safety Executive on 0845 345 0055. Landlords can be fined up to £5,000 for each offence and even prosecuted for serious misdemeanours.