If you're having any work done on a gas boiler, cooker, fire or pipework, the person doing it must be Gas Safe registered. This isn't a recommendation — it's a legal requirement. Hiring an unregistered engineer puts your family at risk and could invalidate your home insurance.

What is Gas Safe registration?

Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas engineers who are legally allowed to work on gas appliances in the UK. It replaced CORGI registration in 2009. Every registered engineer carries a Gas Safe ID card showing their licence number, the types of gas work they're qualified to carry out, and the expiry date of their registration.

How to check registration

You can check any engineer's registration on the Gas Safe Register website at gassaferegister.co.uk. Enter the engineer's licence number or their business name. The register will confirm whether they're currently registered and what types of gas work they're qualified to do.

Always ask to see the engineer's Gas Safe ID card in person before work starts. The card has a hologram and a QR code you can scan to verify it's genuine. Check both sides — the front shows personal details, the back lists the specific appliances and work types they're qualified for.

What if they're not registered?

Don't hire them for gas work. It's illegal for an unregistered person to carry out gas work in the UK, and any work they do will be unverifiable and potentially dangerous. If you suspect someone is carrying out illegal gas work, you can report it to the Health and Safety Executive.

This advice is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.