Cost-of-living crisis leads to rise in dangerous gas appliances

The research indicates that people are delaying safety checks to save money, resulting in potential dangers.

The study revealed that 69 per cent of heating engineers reported a rise in households postponing annual gas services due to cost concerns.

This leaves many households at risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Additionally, 38 per cent of engineers regularly encounter poorly maintained and dangerous appliances needing significant repair or replacement.

The owners, however, cannot afford the necessary work.

Faulty gas appliances can emit carbon monoxide, a deadly gas often referred to as 'the silent killer'.

The recent energy hikes have severely impacted struggling households, further exacerbating the problem.

The loss of the winter fuel allowance is expected to place additional pressure on budgets.

The survey, conducted by campaign group Project Shout, found that 45 per cent of engineers have noted an increase in dangerous appliances since the cost-of-living crisis began.