A clear guide for homeowners to recognise gas issues before they turn dangerous
Many homeowners attempt DIY gas work after watching online videos, but in Perth this is one of the leading causes of emergency gas call-outs. Licensed Gas Plumber Perth professionals are often called in after something has already gone wrong — from gas leaks and appliance failures to serious compliance breaches.
This article explains why DIY gas work is dangerous, how it leads to emergencies, and what Perth homeowners should do instead.
1. Gas systems are far more complex than they look
Gas pipes may seem simple, but they are part of a carefully engineered pressure system designed to deliver fuel safely to every appliance in your home.
A licensed Gas Plumber Perth must account for:
- Pipe sizing and pressure calculations
- Appliance demand and load balancing
- Ventilation and combustion air
- Shut-off valves and isolation points
- Australian and WA gas safety standards
DIY gas work almost always ignores at least one of these. Even something as small as using the wrong fitting or sealant can cause gas to leak into wall cavities, roof spaces, or kitchens without being detected.
2. Most emergency gas call-outs start with “just a small job”
When Perth gas plumbers respond to emergency jobs, the story is usually the same:
“I only moved a stove.”
“I just swapped a hot water unit.”
“I tightened one fitting.”
Those “small” changes often result in:
- Loose or overtightened connections
- Damaged gas threads
- Incorrect appliance connections
- Blocked or missing ventilation
- Gas pressure issues
By the time a Gas Plumber arrives, the home may already be filled with gas, appliances may have shut down, or the risk of ignition is dangerously high.
3. Gas leaks don’t always smell strong
Many homeowners think they will always smell a gas leak. In reality, that’s not always the case.
Gas can:
- Build up slowly in roof spaces
- Leak behind walls
- Pool under floors
- Travel through ducting
This is why gas plumbers use specialised detection equipment, not just their nose. When DIY gas work creates a hidden leak, it often isn’t discovered until:
- An appliance stops working
- A neighbour smells gas
- An explosion or fire occurs
- A safety inspection fails
At that point, it becomes an emergency.
4. DIY gas work is illegal in Western Australia
In WA, all gas work must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. That includes:
- Connecting or disconnecting appliances
- Altering gas pipework
- Installing regulators or valves
- Modifying gas supply lines
If a Gas Plumber Perth finds unlicensed gas work, it must be reported and repaired before the system can be certified. This can lead to:
- Gas supply being shut off
- Insurance being voided
- Expensive compliance rectification
- Delays in selling or renting the property
5. Emergency call-outs cost far more than proper installation
DIY gas work is often done to save money — but it almost always costs more in the end.
Emergency call-outs usually involve:
- After-hours fees
- Leak detection and pressure testing
- Replacing damaged fittings and pipework
- Compliance certification
- Safety inspections
A licensed Gas Plumber Perth doing the job properly from the start is always safer, faster, and cheaper.
Our Gas Plumbing Services in Perth
Perth Local Plumbing provides licensed, fully compliant gas services across WA, including:
- Gas appliance installation
- Gas leak detection and repairs
- Gas line upgrades and extensions
- Hot water system connections
- Gas compliance certificates
- Emergency call-outs
All work is completed by certified gas plumbers who meet Western Australian safety regulations.
FAQs
1. Can I legally do my own gas work in Perth?
No. In Western Australia, all gas work must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter. DIY gas repairs or installations are illegal and can result in safety risks, fines, and insurance issues.
2. What should I do if I smell gas?
Turn off the gas supply, open windows, avoid electrical switches, and call a licensed Gas Plumber Perth immediately.
3. Why does DIY gas work fail inspections?
DIY gas work fails inspections because it usually doesn’t meet pressure, ventilation, and safety code requirements.
4. Is DIY gas work covered by insurance?
No. Most Australian insurers will reject claims if damage is linked to unlicensed or non-compliant gas work.
5. How do I know if gas work in my home is compliant?
A licensed gas plumber can inspect the system and issue a gas compliance certificate if it meets WA regulations.
Final Thoughts
DIY gas work is one of the most dangerous shortcuts a homeowner can take. What begins as a small fix often ends in an emergency call-out, serious safety risks, and a much higher repair bill.
If gas work is needed, contact us to arrange a licensed Gas Plumber Perth and ensure the work is completed safely, compliantly, and without risk.
