KEIGHLEY students moving into privately-rented accommodation as they begin the new university year are being warned about the dangers of gas.

And they are reminded that their landlord has a legal responsibility to ensure all gas fittings and appliances in the property are safe and correctly maintained.

The message has been issued by the Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors, which says faulty appliances can lead to leaks, explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Spokesman John Thompson said: "Finding the right accommodation can be a challenge, with many students understandably prioritising cost, location or size over the safety aspects of a property.

"However, a landlord has a legal obligation to ensure tenants' safety and just because students are moving in doesn't mean landlords can cut corners on safety checks or quality repairs."

Landlords must make sure checks are carried out every year by a GasSafe-registered engineer.

A record has to be maintained of inspection dates, any defects identified and the remedial action taken.

By law, tenants must be given a copy of the landlord's gas safety record, also known as a gas safety certificate.

There is also a legal requirement for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to be fitted in all rented properties.