Illegal Gas Work After Social Media Advertising and False Gas Safe Branding

Brief Summary

The case highlights the dangers of unregistered gas work and the enforcement action taken where an individual advertises services using false Gas Safe branding and carries out multiple breaches of the Gas Safe regulations. It serves as a clear reminder that only registered engineers should carry out gas work, and consumers should verify registration before work starts.

What Was The Incident?

An individual advertised gas fitting services on a social media platform and used flyers bearing the Gas Safe logo even though they were not on the Gas Safe Register. The person traded under different business names and carried out gas work on boilers and gas fires at five homes in the North East between June and September 2024. The work included boiler replacements, installing gas pipework, carrying out gas work on boilers and gas fires, and disconnecting gas appliances.

What Was The Outcome?

The person pleaded guilty to 10 breaches of the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1999. A suspended prison sentence of eight months was imposed for two years. They were also required to complete a six month mental health treatment requirement and 30 days of rehabilitation activity, and were ordered to pay compensation of £450 and £200 towards prosecution costs.

Key Points To Consider

Verify gas engineer registration before any work begins. Require proof of current Gas Safe Register identification and check the registration number so gas work is only carried out by a registered engineer.

False Gas Safe branding is a serious red flag. Where advertising or paperwork includes Gas Safe logos without actual registration, treat it as evidence of illegal and potentially unsafe practice.

Illegal gas work can be both unlawful and life threatening. Gas work by someone not registered risks substandard installation and can lead to hazards such as gas leaks, fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Ensure controls cover contractors and trade services. For any gas related activity, implement a process that confirms competence and current registration status, and prevent work from going ahead if verification fails.

Enforcement can follow even after registration has ended. If someone was previously registered but continues working after registration no longer applies, they can still be prosecuted for carrying out regulated gas work without being registered.

HSE Prosecution Link