If you’ve had gas work done at your home in Queensland, your gasfitter may have handed you a gas compliance certificate. It’s easy to file it away and forget about it, but it’s an important document. Here’s a plain-English guide to what it is and why you should keep it.
What is a gas compliance certificate?
A gas compliance certificate is a document issued by a licensed gasfitter confirming that gas work has been completed and meets the relevant safety and installation requirements. In Queensland, after a gas installation or alteration, the gasfitter must give the certificate to the owner on completion of the work. A copy is also provided to the gas network operator shortly after.
When do you need one?
You generally need a certificate whenever someone carries out gas work, including:
- Installing new gas appliances, such as a cooktop, oven, heater or barbecue connection
- Gas hot water systems, including new installations and replacements
- Changes to gas lines, such as extending, relocating or altering pipework
- LPG setups, including cylinder and regulator installations or changes
The exact requirements depend on the type of work, so if you’re unsure whether your job needs a certificate, ask your gasfitter before work starts. A reputable licensed gasfitter will explain this as part of the quote.
Why it matters
Safety
Gas work done incorrectly can lead to leaks, fires, explosions or carbon monoxide exposure. The certificate shows that a qualified person has done the work and checked that it is safe to use.
Insurance
If something goes wrong with a gas appliance or installation, your insurer may ask for evidence that a licensed gasfitter did the work. Having the certificate on hand can make that process far smoother. Check your policy or speak to your insurer about their requirements.
Selling your home
Buyers, agents and solicitors may ask for records of gas work during a sale. Keeping your certificates together with other home records shows a professional did the work properly and can help avoid delays or awkward questions.
Only licensed gasfitters can do gas work
Gas fitting is regulated work in Queensland, and only a suitably licensed gasfitter can carry it out. This isn’t an area for DIY, no matter how simple the job looks. Gas work by an unlicensed person can be unsafe, your insurance may not cover it, and nobody can properly certify it.
Before work starts, ask to see your gasfitter’s licence details. You can also check a licence through the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). The Plumbing Gang is QBCC licensed and a member of Master Plumbers Queensland.
What to do with your certificate
- Check that your name and address are correct and that the work described matches what was done
- Keep the original and take a photo or scan as a backup
- Store it with your other home records, such as warranties and building documents
- Hand it over to the new owner if you sell
If you’ve had gas work done and never received a certificate, contact the gasfitter who did the work. If you’re unsure whether older work was properly certified, a licensed gasfitter can inspect the installation and advise on next steps.
If you smell gas
Safety comes first. If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply at the meter or cylinder if it is safe to do so. Don’t use flames, light switches or anything that could cause a spark. Open doors and windows to ventilate, get everyone outside, and call 000 if there is immediate danger. The gas distributor’s emergency number is on your gas bill.
When you need a gas compliance certificate in Queensland
You need a gas compliance certificate in Queensland after most gas work, such as a new appliance or gas line. Because it’s an official record, keep it somewhere safe. Resources Safety and Health Queensland oversees gas safety, and our gas compliance team can help.
Need gas work done or certified? Call The Plumbing Gang on 1300 671 525 or see our gas fitting services. If you’re upgrading your hot water, take a look at our hot water options too.