A Nelson man has copped a $4000 fine for doing gasfitting work without a licence.

Craig Ashton did not hold a gasfitting licence when he and another person installed an LPG powered refrigerator and extended pipework for a flue in a motorhome. Ashton's work was found to be defective by a registered gasfitter.

Plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying are regulated industries and it is illegal to do this work unless authorised by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers board. The board's chief executive, Max Pedersen, warns consumers: "Don't risk your family's health and safety or your insurance by hiring unauthorised people. While New Zealand law allows anyone to purchase gasfitting appliances, it is illegal to undertake any associated gasfitting work without authorisation.

All authorised tradespeople are required to carry their current authorisation card. The board advised consumers to stay safe and ask for this card before any work commences. That way you could be assured installations were safely connected to the gas supply, ventilated properly, in good working order, and that safety devices were correctly adjusted.

Ariel Plumbing and Gasfitting are certifying gasfitters - so you can ask for our card!

Source: NZ Stuff