The Importance of UKAS Accreditation for Electric Gate Installations: Insurance, Liability & Compliance
Introduction
Electric gates offer security, convenience, and increased property value, but improper installation can lead to serious safety risks, liability issues, and invalidated insurance claims. Choosing a UKAS-accredited electric gate installationcompany ensures compliance with British safety standards, reduces liability risks, and protects property owners from potential legal and financial consequences.
In this blog, we explore why UKAS accreditation is essential for electric gate installation, how it impacts insurance liability, and why businesses and homeowners should always work with accredited professionals.
What Is UKAS Accreditation?
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is the national accreditation body responsible for certifying organizations that provide testing, inspection, and certification for various industries, including automated gate installations.
For electric gate installers, UKAS accreditation ensures compliance with:
- BS EN 12453 – Safety for powered gates and barriers
- BS EN 13241 – Performance standards for gates and industrial doors
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Legal obligations for workplace safety
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 – Safe operation of work equipment
When hiring an automatic gate installer, ensuring they have UKAS accreditation means your property remains compliant with safety laws and insurance requirements.
How UKAS Accreditation Affects Insurance Liability
1. Avoiding Rejected Insurance Claims
Insurance companies assess the risk of electric gate failures when providing coverage. If an accident occurs due to an unapproved or non-compliant electric gate installation, insurers may:
- Deny injury or damage claims – If the gate was installed by a non-accredited company, the insurer may refuse to pay out.
- Increase insurance premiums – A gate that does not meet UK safety standards is considered high risk.
- Void insurance policies – Some policies require electric gates to be installed and maintained by UKAS-accredited gate installers.
Using an accredited automated gate installation company ensures compliance with insurance policies, reducing the risk of rejected claims.
2. Protecting Against Liability & Legal Action
Poorly installed or maintained electric gates can cause serious injuries or fatalities, leading to lawsuits, fines, or even criminal charges. In the UK, multiple incidents have resulted in:
- Heavy fines for businesses and landlords for unsafe gate installations
- Criminal prosecutions under workplace safety laws
- Personal injury claims from victims of gate accidents
By choosing a UKAS-accredited automatic gate installer, property owners can demonstrate due diligence, reducing legal exposure.
3. Ensuring Compliance with Safety Regulations
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) actively enforces safety standards for electric gate installations, with the power to issue:
- Enforcement notices requiring unsafe gates to be upgraded
- Fines for non-compliance
- Legal action against businesses and landlords
Using a UKAS-accredited company for electric gate installation ensures compliance with safety laws, preventing regulatory issues.
The Risks of Using Non-Accredited Installers
Choosing a cheap, non-accredited electric gate installer may save money upfront but can lead to serious consequences:
❌ Increased risk of failure – Uncertified installations may lack essential safety features.
❌ Higher long-term costs – Frequent breakdowns, repairs, and potential legal fees.
❌ Invalid insurance coverage – Non-compliant gates may void property insurance.
❌ Potential legal action – Liability for accidents, injuries, or fatalities.
By hiring a UKAS-accredited automatic gate company, property owners can avoid these risks while ensuring a safe, compliant, and long-lasting electric gate installation.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or facility manager, working with a UKAS-accredited electric gate installer is essential for:
✅ Ensuring insurance compliance and avoiding claim rejections
✅ Reducing liability risks and protecting against lawsuits
✅ Meeting UK safety regulations to avoid fines or legal action
✅ Guaranteeing high-quality electric gate installation and maintenance
Before installing or servicing automatic gates, always check for UKAS accreditation. It’s a small step that can save money, legal trouble, and even lives in the long run.
Looking for a UKAS-accredited electric gate installation company? Contact a certified expert today to ensure your automatic gate system meets the highest standards of safety and compliance
