Plumber pays $7,800 after carrying out work without a current practising licence…

The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board has ordered a Tradesman Plumber to pay $7,800 after he carried out defective work without a current practising licence. 

The Plumber was hired to install a gas continuous flow water heater. To do this, he had to disconnect water pipes and connect the water heater to the water supply. It also required connections to the existing gas supply and gas hob. 

The work was later inspected by another certified plumber and gasfitter. It was found that the installation was defective, and did not comply with the mandatory gas installation standard, nor the Gas Regulations. 

An inspection of the installation found multiple failures with the work, such as:

• the installation was connected to gas cylinders that were not the adequate size;
• the cylinders were connected to soil rather than a firm base;
• the cylinders were installed too close to damaged materials;
• the gas pipework did not have UV protection; and
• the required testing was not carried out. 

The Board found that these failures created a high risk of harm to person, property, or the environment. It was also found that the Plumber did not have a current practising certificate at the time of the installation. 

The Plumber pleaded guilty to the disciplinary offence. 

The Board ordered the plumber to pay a fine of $4,000, as well as contribute $3,800 to costs. 

It is important to be aware of your obligations as a tradesman. If you are confused about your obligations, it pays to seek advice from a professional with experience in the area. 

Leading law firms committed to helping clients cost-effectively will have a range of fixed-price Initial Consultations to suit most people’s needs in quickly learning what their options are.  At Rainey Collins we have an experienced team who can answer your questions and put you on the right track.