What is a gas tightness test?
It is a test of gas pipework to confirm it is sound and free from leaks, carried out to IGEM/UP/1B on domestic installations.
IGEM/UP/1B
Gas Tightness (Soundness) Test Certificate
A gas tightness, or soundness, test certificate records the let-by and tightness test carried out on a domestic gas installation to confirm the pipework is sound and free from leaks.
The test is carried out to the industry procedure IGEM/UP/1B, which sets out how to test and purge domestic-sized gas installations.
TradePlanr lets you record the test on your phone, capture your gauge readings and results, and issue a clear PDF as evidence the installation passed.
Issue this certificate from your phone
TradePlanr generates this and 35+ other gas, electrical, oil, plumbing and renewables certificates as proper PDFs — filled on site, signed on screen and stored against the job. Works even with no signal. Free to download.
What it covers
- Property, customer and engineer details, with Gas Safe registration
- Installation details, including meter type and pipework size
- Let-by test result confirming the meter valve is holding
- Stabilisation period and the tightness test pressure and duration
- Permitted and actual pressure drop, and the pass or fail result
- Purging details where carried out and confirmation the installation is safe
- The standard satisfied: IGEM/UP/1B for domestic gas installations
When it's required
A tightness test is carried out after work on gas pipework, when a new installation is completed, or where a leak is suspected. It confirms the installation is sound before it is put back into use.
Testing to the recognised procedure is part of safe working practice under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, and the certificate provides documented evidence of the result.
The test must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer competent for the installation being tested.
How to issue it in TradePlanr
- 1
Create the job
Open TradePlanr and start a job for the property, adding the customer and installation details.
- 2
Pick the tightness test template
Select the gas tightness test template so the let-by, stabilisation and tightness fields are ready.
- 3
Record the test on site
Enter the test pressure, stabilisation period, permitted and actual pressure drop, and the let-by and tightness results.
- 4
Sign and send the PDF
Sign on screen and send or store the completed tightness test PDF as evidence the installation is sound.
Frequently asked questions
When is a gas soundness test needed?
It is needed after work on pipework, when a new installation is completed, or where a leak is suspected, before the gas is put back into use.
Who can carry out a gas tightness test?
A Gas Safe registered engineer competent for the installation must carry out and record the tightness test.
Can I record a tightness test on my phone?
Yes. TradePlanr lets you enter your readings on site, sign on screen and send the PDF straight away.
Related certificates
Strength, Tightness & Purge (IGEM/UP/1A)
The strength, tightness and purge record for larger and commercial gas pipework to IGEM/UP/1A.
Domestic Gas Safety Certificate
The safety check record for domestic gas appliances, issued after an installation or check.
Central Heating Commissioning (Benchmark)
The Benchmark commissioning checklist completed when a boiler or heating system is installed.
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