Gas appliances are part of everyday life for many Queensland homes — from LPG cooktops and hot water systems to heaters and outdoor BBQs. While gas is safe when installed and maintained correctly, it’s also tightly regulated for a reason.

If you’re a homeowner or landlord in Queensland, understanding your legal responsibilities around gas safety isn’t just good practice — it’s the law.

Here’s what you need to know.

Why Gas Safety Is Taken Seriously in Queensland

Gas work in Queensland is regulated to protect people from serious risks such as:

• • Gas leaks

  • Fire and explosion

  • Carbon monoxide exposure

  • Appliance failure due to incorrect installation

Because of these risks, Queensland has strict licensing and compliance requirements for anyone installing, repairing or modifying gas systems.

Who Is Legally Allowed to Work on Gas?

In Queensland, only a licensed gas fitter is legally permitted to:

• • Install gas appliances

  • Repair or modify gas pipework

  • Install or replace LPG regulators

  • Connect or disconnect gas supply

  • Commission gas appliances

DIY gas work is illegal — even seemingly minor tasks can be dangerous and may void insurance or warranties.

Homeowner Responsibilities

As a homeowner, you are legally responsible for ensuring:

• • All gas work on your property is completed by a licensed gas fitter

  • Gas appliances are installed and operated according to Australian Standards

  • Faulty or unsafe appliances are repaired or disconnected promptly

  • LPG cylinders, regulators and pipework are kept in safe condition

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, you must act immediately and arrange professional assistance.

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords in Queensland have additional legal obligations, including:

• • Providing gas appliances that are safe and in good working order

  • Ensuring gas installations comply with current regulations

  • Arranging licensed gas fitting work for repairs or replacements

  • Responding promptly to tenant gas safety concerns

  • Ensure the property has a current gas compliance certificate

Failing to meet these responsibilities can result in penalties — and more importantly, place tenants at risk.

Gas Compliance Certificates — Why They Matter

After completing gas work, a licensed gas fitter must issue a gas compliance certificate. This document:

• • Confirms the work meets legal and safety standards

  • Protects homeowners and landlords if issues arise later

  • Is often required by insurers or during property sales

If gas work has been done on your property and you don’t have a compliance certificate, that’s a red flag.

Common Gas Safety Mistakes We See

Some of the most common issues we encounter include:

• • Unlicensed gas work completed during renovations

  • Old or corroded LPG regulators

  • Incorrect bottle clearances

  • DIY appliance connections

  • Modified pipework without certification

Many of these problems go unnoticed until there’s a leak or failure — which is why professional inspections matter.

When to Call a Licensed Gas Fitter

You should contact a licensed gas fitter if:

• • You smell gas

  • Appliances are not operating correctly

  • You’re renovating or upgrading appliances

  • You’re unsure whether existing gas work is compliant

  • You own a rental property with gas appliances

Early action can prevent serious safety issues and costly repairs later.

Final Thoughts

Gas safety in Queensland isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about protecting lives, homes and livelihoods.

Whether you’re a homeowner or landlord, using licensed professionals and staying on top of gas safety responsibilities gives you peace of mind and ensures your property remains compliant.

If you’re unsure about the safety or legality of your gas installation, it’s always best to get it checked.