Media release
23 October 2015
Board warns Christchurch tradies working illegally that they will get caught
The recent conviction of Christchurch man, Grant Longman, has served as a timely reminder to homeowners to ensure that
they only use authorised tradespeople for restricted plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying work.
Sanitary Plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying are regulated industries in New Zealand and it is illegal to do this
restricted work unless authorised by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board.
Mr Longman was sighted conducting restricted gasfitting work unlawfully by a registered and certifying gasfitter working
on the same building site; where Longman removed the gas caps from a live LPG gas system; and installed gas flares by
fixing them to a gas installation and connecting them to a live gas supply.
The certifying gasfitter took immediate steps to make the system safe and reported the matter.
The Board’s Chief Executive, Martin Sawyers says; “It’s vital that regions experiencing increases in new dwelling
building consents such as Christchurch, can rely on competent tradespeople. The reason the provision of these services
are restricted is because of the serious effects that this type of substandard work can have on public health and
safety.
“The Board does conduct regular licence checks in this area, and enforcement officers are checking those providing
plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying services are competent and hold a current authorisation. Those working illegally in
this area will get caught.”
“It is also important to know that work undertaken by unlicensed people not only risks your family’s health and
safety—but may also invalidate insurance.”
“Homeowners should take every precaution when engaging with service providers by asking to see an authorisation
card—tradespeople are required to produce it”, said Mr Sawyers.
After pleading guilty to carrying out unauthorised gasfitting, His Honour Judge Kellar, sentenced Grant Longman to a
fine of $2,500, court costs of $130, and a solicitor’s fee of $113, in the Christchurch District Court.
Ends