When you are running the household on your own, a gas problem is the last thing you need. The cooktop won’t light, the hot water runs cold on a school morning, or you notice a smell you can’t quite place. Who do you call, and how do you know they are actually allowed to do the job?
In Western Australia, gas work is licensed separately from general plumbing. Knowing the difference helps you protect your kids, your home and your insurance, and it makes dealing with tradespeople much less stressful.
Plumbing and Gas Fitting Are Separate Licences
Plumbing work, such as water supply, drainage and sanitary fixtures, is covered by a plumbing licence. Gas fitting is covered by a separate gas fitting licence or permit, issued by Building and Energy, the WA regulator.
Many tradespeople hold both. They are often called gas plumbers, or plumbers and gas fitters. But a plumber who only holds a plumbing licence is not permitted to carry out gas fitting work.
What Counts as Gas Work?
In general, gas fitting includes any work on a gas installation or gas appliance. Common examples in homes include:
- Installing, connecting or disconnecting gas appliances such as cooktops, ovens, heaters and hot water systems
- Running or altering gas pipework
- Converting appliances between natural gas and LPG
- Repairing or servicing gas appliances
- Locating and repairing gas leaks
- Installing gas bayonet points for portable heaters or barbecues
Even a job that seems simple, like swapping an old gas cooktop for a new one, must be done by someone appropriately licensed.
Why It Matters When You Are the Only Adult at Home
Gas is a safe and efficient energy source when it is installed correctly. When it isn’t, the consequences can be serious:
- Gas leaks, which can lead to fire or explosion
- Carbon monoxide poisoning from poorly installed or faulty appliances, or inadequate ventilation
- Incorrect gas pressure, causing appliances to perform poorly or unsafely
Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because you can’t see or smell it. When you are the one responsible for everyone in the house, including children who are asleep or at home alone for a short time, it pays to make sure every gas job is done properly the first time.
Warning Signs of a Gas Problem
Call a licensed gas fitter, or your gas emergency number if the situation is serious, if you notice:
- A smell of gas, similar to rotten eggs, inside or outside your home
- A hissing sound near gas pipes or appliances
- Yellow or orange flames on a gas burner instead of a steady blue flame
- Soot or black marks around gas appliances
- Headaches, dizziness or nausea that improve when you leave the house, which can be signs of carbon monoxide exposure
If you smell gas, don’t use electrical switches and don’t light any flames. Get everyone out, including the kids and pets, open doors and windows on the way, and call for help from outside the home.
What to Ask a Tradesperson Before They Start
You don’t need to be an expert to protect yourself. A few simple questions make a big difference:
- “Do you hold a current gas fitting licence or permit?” Ask for the licence or permit number, and check it using the Building and Energy online licence search. Make sure it is current and covers the type of work you need.
- “Can you explain what the job involves?” A good gas plumber will walk you through the work in plain language, including what is being changed and why.
- “Will you give me the compliance paperwork?” After most gas fitting work in WA, the licensed gas fitter must lodge a notice of completion with the regulator and provide documentation to you.
- “Can I get the details in writing?” Having the quote and job description written down keeps everyone on the same page.
A legitimate gas plumber will be happy to answer all of these. If someone hesitates or avoids the questions, that is a good reason to call someone else.
Natural Gas and LPG: Why the Type Matters
Some Perth homes are connected to mains natural gas, while others, particularly in outer suburbs and rural areas, use bottled LPG. The two gases burn differently and need appliances set up for the correct type. Connecting an appliance designed for natural gas to an LPG supply, or the other way around, can cause poor combustion, sooting and dangerous carbon monoxide levels.
Converting an appliance between gas types, where the manufacturer allows it, involves changing injectors and adjusting pressures. This is skilled gas fitting work that must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. If you are moving house or switching supply, ask a professional to confirm that every appliance is set up correctly.
Keep Your Compliance Paperwork
The record from a licensed gas fitter shows the work was carried out by a qualified person and meets the relevant standards. Keep this paperwork somewhere safe, such as a folder or a photo on your phone. It is useful for insurance claims and when you sell or rent out your home.
Regular Servicing Matters
Gas appliances should be serviced regularly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. A licensed gas fitter will check for leaks, test pressures, clean burners and confirm that flues and ventilation are working properly. Regular servicing improves safety and efficiency and can extend the life of your appliances. Putting a reminder in your calendar makes it one less thing to remember.
The Right Person for the Job
The next time you need gas work done, don’t assume any plumber will do. Ask about gas fitting qualifications, check the licence and make sure you receive the compliance paperwork when the job is finished. It is a small effort that protects your home and everyone in it.
