Gas safety in the home: what to check annually
Gas is a convenient, efficient energy source — but it needs respect. Annual checks help keep your family safe, avoid costly breakdowns, and ensure your home complies with New Zealand safety expectations. If you live in Wellington or surrounding suburbs (Karori, Johnsonville, Newtown, Miramar, Kilbirnie, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, Petone and others), regular professional servicing and a trusted local gasfitter are especially important given our housing stock and climate.
Why an annual gas check matters
- Prevents carbon monoxide (CO) risks: Faulty combustion or blocked flues can produce CO — an invisible, odourless and potentially lethal gas.
- Detects leaks early: Small leaks can become serious safety hazards and increase fuel bills.
- Maintains appliance efficiency: Serviced burners and correct combustion keep water heaters, cookers and heaters operating safely and economically.
- Meets safety and compliance expectations: Gasfitting work in New Zealand must be carried out by qualified, registered gasfitters — annual checks provide documented proof of maintenance.
Annual gas safety checklist — what to have checked
Ask your registered gasfitter to complete a full inspection and provide a written report/certificate. Key items to check every year include:
- Gas appliance servicing: Clean and service gas water heaters, boilers, room heaters, cooktops and ovens. Check ignition, burners and seals.
- Combustion and flue inspection: Check flues, chimneys and vents for blockages, corrosion or deterioration. Ensure correct draft and drainage of combustion products.
- Carbon monoxide check: Test for CO levels where combustion appliances are used. Ensure CO alarms are installed and working in or near sleeping areas (recommended for homes with gas heaters or enclosed combustion appliances).
- Gas leak test: Pressure test gas lines and fittings, inspect joints and valves, and replace any corroded pipe or worn flexible hoses.
- Meter and regulator check: Inspect the gas meter, regulators and any external fittings for damage, weathering or tampering.
- LPG cylinder and regulator inspection (if you use LPG): Check cylinder storage, regulator condition and secure mounting. Look for rust, dents or leaks.
- Ventilation assessment: Check that rooms with gas appliances have adequate ventilation and required clearance from combustible materials.
- Safety devices and controls: Test thermostats, limit switches, pressure relief valves and emergency shut-offs. Ensure occupants know where the main gas shut-off is.
- Flexible hose replacement: Replace flexible appliance hoses if aged or showing signs of wear — these are commonly overlooked but critical items.
Who should do the checks?
In New Zealand, gasfitting and gas appliance work must be done by a registered gasfitter. Hire a reputable, insured local company that can provide a written inspection report and, where applicable, a compliance certificate. For Wellington homeowners, local providers understand regional building methods, common appliance types and typical issues in suburbs from the CBD to Lower Hutt and Porirua.
What to do if you suspect a gas leak or CO
- Evacuate the premises immediately.
- Don’t operate electrical switches, phones or naked flames inside the building.
- If safe, turn off the gas supply at the main valve.
- From a safe location, contact your gas supplier or emergency gas service and a registered gasfitter to inspect and repair.
- Seek medical help if anyone is feeling unwell — symptoms of CO exposure include headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
Landlords, rentals and compliance
If you rent out a property in Wellington or the wider Wellington region, you have responsibilities to keep gas fittings safe and maintained. Landlords should ensure periodic professional inspections, and keep records of servicing. Check current guidance from regulatory bodies and ask a registered gasfitter for advice on meeting your obligations.
How to choose a trustworthy local gasfitter
- Ask for registration details and evidence of insurance.
- Request references or local reviews (neighbours in Wellington suburbs are a good source).
- Choose a company that provides a written report and clear pricing before work starts.
- Prefer firms that offer emergency response, planned annual servicing and follow-up support.
Local help in Wellington
If you’re in Wellington and need a reliable annual gas check or emergency assistance, local specialists can help. For more information about services, servicing options and compliance checks, see Accrete Plumbing’s website: https://www.accreteplumbing.co.nz/. Working with a trusted local company gives you the confidence that your gas systems are safe, compliant and suited to Wellington’s homes and climate.
Final tips
- Schedule an annual professional check — mark it on your calendar.
- Install and test carbon monoxide alarms, especially near sleeping areas.
- Teach household members how to turn off the gas and what to do in an emergency.
- Keep all documentation of servicing and repairs — it helps with safety, warranties and compliance.
Keeping gas systems safe is about routine care, the right expertise, and knowing who to call. Annual checks by a registered, local gasfitter are the single best step Wellington homeowners can take to protect their family, property and peace of mind.
