A rogue gas installer has been sentenced for illegal and dangerous gas work at two homes in Hampshire, highlighting the critical importance of Gas Safe registration.
A Hampshire man, Bradley Willis-Chambers, has been sentenced after carrying out illegal and dangerous gas work at two separate properties in the county. Despite not being registered with the Gas Safe Register, Willis-Chambers performed gas installations that were later found to have serious defects, leaving one household without hot water for an extended period. This is not the first time Willis-Chambers has faced enforcement action from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for similar offences, having been previously struck off the Gas Safe Register in 2012.
Southampton Magistrates’ Court heard that the illegal work took place between August 2022 and January 2023. An investigation by the HSE revealed that Willis-Chambers had installed a gas boiler at one property and carried out work on a gas fire at another, all while lacking the necessary registration and competence. The defects discovered at both sites posed significant risks to the occupants.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with unregistered gas work. Gas appliances, when incorrectly installed or maintained, can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks, fires, and explosions. The Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas engineers legally qualified to work on gas installations in the UK. Its purpose is to protect the public from unsafe gas work.
The HSE’s investigation and subsequent prosecution underscore their commitment to holding individuals accountable for endangering the public through illegal practices. HSE inspector Nicola Pinckney commented on the case, stating, “Mr Willis-Chambers put lives at risk through his shoddy and illegal gas work.” This sentiment reinforces the message that gas safety is non-negotiable and requires professional, registered expertise.
For UK tradespeople, particularly those working in plumbing and heating, this case reinforces the absolute necessity of maintaining Gas Safe registration and adhering to all relevant safety regulations. It highlights the reputational and legal risks associated with cutting corners or employing unregistered individuals. For those sub-contracting work, verifying the Gas Safe status of any operative is paramount. Tools and equipment for gas work are highly specialised, and while readily available from retailers like Screwfix or Toolstation, proper certification is what validates their safe and effective use in gas installations.
For serious DIYers considering undertaking any gas-related tasks, or more commonly, hiring someone to do so, this story is a critical warning. You absolutely must check that any individual or company you hire for gas work is Gas Safe registered. This can be done quickly and easily via the Gas Safe Register website (gassaferegister.co.uk) by entering their registration number or company name. Never be swayed by lower prices from someone claiming to be a gas engineer if they cannot produce a valid Gas Safe ID card. Paying less for unregistered work could cost you far more in repairs, health risks, or even lives. Always ask to see their ID card and verify their details online before any work commences. This vigilance is your primary defence against dangerous and illegal gas installations.
Reported by HSE — original article
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