Gaffer tape round gas fire

Unregistered · Jul 9, 2015

Hi, looking for some urgent advice.
We have just moved into a rented property where fireplace is old and gas fire looks approx 5 years old. It is however gaffer taped to the fireplace... really concerned about the safety of this??
The gaffer tape is two layers thick protruding all around the perimeter of the fire (visible above it) and looks as though it is acting as a sealant to the wall and flue.
We were told by the letting agent it's perfectly normal practice and there is a gas safety cert to prove all ok, however we have 2 young children and I'm not willing to take any risks.
The fire also has a glass front with fake logs in and the glass appears coudy, stained and discoloured on the inside - again is this ok??
Sorry I have no experience in this area and am a concerned mum so any expert advice gratefully received.

oz-plumber · Jul 9, 2015

Firstly,

Don't apologise for having no experience.

As for your concerns, I feel that they are warranted.
I have never sealed - nor ever seen a gas log fire sealed to the chimney with Gaffer tape.

As for the letting agent stating that it's 'perfectly normal practice' beggars belief.

I would get the Letting agent to put in writing what he claims and also ( if possible) obtain the Gas Safety Certificate.

You will have to take advice of some of the local plumbers of what the next step would be, but I wouldn't use the fire at all until you have someone come and prove to you it is safe.

Sounds dangerous - and carbon monoxide is deadly.