20 Feb Why Gas Fitting Should Only Be Done by a Licensed Professional
Can I Fix Gas Fittings Myself?
I’ve lost count of the number of DIY gas jobs gone wrong that I’ve had to fix.
Gas work is not like installing a tap or fixing a leaky pipe. When done incorrectly, it can lead to gas leaks, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning—and I can tell you, those aren’t risks you want to take.
Yet, I still come across homeowners who try to install, repair, or relocate gas lines on their own. Bad idea.
Here’s why gas fitting should only ever be handled by a licensed professional—and what can go wrong if it isn’t.
Gas Fitting is Highly Regulated for a Reason
Gas systems are complex, high-risk, and require strict compliance with Australian safety regulations.
In Queensland, it’s illegal for an unlicensed person to carry out gas work. That includes:
✔ Installing gas appliances (stoves, heaters, BBQs).
✔ Repairing or replacing gas pipes or fittings.
✔ Modifying existing gas lines or regulators.
✔ Testing for gas leaks or pressure issues.
Licensed gas fitters undergo years of training to understand gas systems, safety protocols, and Australian Standard AS/NZS 5601.1—which governs gas installations.
If a gas system isn’t installed or maintained properly, the consequences can be deadly.
What Can Go Wrong With DIY Gas Work?
🚨 Gas Leaks
Even a tiny gas leak can be dangerous. Gas is highly flammable, and if it builds up in an enclosed space, all it takes is a single spark to ignite an explosion.
🚨 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Poorly fitted gas appliances can cause incomplete combustion, leading to carbon monoxide leaks. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible, you won’t even know it’s there until you start feeling the effects—headaches, dizziness, or worse.
🚨 Fire & Explosions
I’ve seen gas lines installed without proper ventilation or pressure control, leading to fires, gas explosions, and total property damage.
🚨 Expensive Repairs (or Replacements)
If an unlicensed person installs gas incorrectly, it often needs to be ripped out and redone properly—which ends up costing far more than hiring a professional in the first place.
🚨 Voiding Insurance & Warranties
Most home insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by unlicensed gas work. If something goes wrong, you’ll be paying out of pocket.
How to Know If Your Gas System Was Installed Properly
If you didn’t have a licensed gas fitter do the work, or you’ve recently moved into a home with an existing gas system, watch out for these warning signs:
❌ You Smell Gas Indoors – A strong sulfur or “rotten egg” smell means you could have a leak.
❌ Your Gas Appliances Aren’t Working Properly – If the flame is yellow instead of blue, or if your heater keeps shutting off, it could mean poor ventilation or gas pressure issues.
❌ Unusual Headaches, Dizziness, or Fatigue – These could be symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.
❌ A Spike in Your Gas Bill – If you’re using the same amount of gas but your bill has suddenly increased, you may have an undetected leak.
If you notice any of these issues, turn off the gas supply immediately and call a licensed gas fitter.
Why Hiring a Licensed Gas Fitter is a No-Brainer
✅ We’re Fully Qualified & Certified
Licensed gas fitters train for years and must pass strict safety and competency tests before they can legally work with gas.
✅ We Ensure Compliance & Safety
Gas fitting isn’t just about getting an appliance working—it’s about making sure it’s safe and meets all Australian regulations.
✅ We Test for Leaks & Pressure Issues
After every installation or repair, we use specialised equipment to check for leaks, ventilation problems, and incorrect pressure levels.
✅ We Save You Time, Money & Risk
Hiring a professional upfront is always cheaper than fixing a botched DIY job or dealing with a major gas emergency.
Final Thoughts
Gas fitting is not a DIY job – and it’s really not worth the risk. Trust me.
If you need a gas appliance installed, a leak checked, or a system repaired, always call a licensed gas fitter.
As a qualified professional, I’ll make sure your system is safe, compliant, and working efficiently – so you never have to worry.
📞 Call me today for expert gas fitting services!
With over 30 years in the plumbing industry he provides a level headed and experience approach to all client related work.He is genuine person with a keen interest in family, friends and helping others.
He holds Queensland Plumbing Licence 28840, Gas Licence L31 902, QBCC License 12 654 79, and Building Assets and Services Contractor licence 860 066.
Rich believes in educating clients about their plumbing systems and providing honest advice about when professional help is needed.
He founded Alexander Gas and Plumbing Co in 2013 to provide personal, trustworthy service to Brisbane families and businesses.
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