An illegal gas fitter from Fenham who carried out 'dangerous and sub-standard work' has been handed a suspended prison sentence. Despite not being on the Gas Safe Register, Alexander Robson, 38, was advertising his business on Facebook to people across the North East.
Robson used fake Gas Safe logo on flyers
Robson even went as far as using flyers with the Gas Safe logo on them, without actually being registered. He traded under several names, including GasnHeat Plumberz and North East Renovationz, doing work on boilers and gas fires in five homes, in Newcastle, Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, and Winlaton.
With the work he was doing already being illegal, it was also revealed to be sub-standard, potentially endangering the lives of those living in the properties, as work not done correctly could lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Work carried out between June and September 2024
Robson, who had previously been registered until February 1, 2024, but kept working for months when that was no longer the case, quickly became the subject of an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), regarding work he carried out at five homes between June and September 2024.
The work included several boiler replacements, the installation of gas pipework, gas work on boilers and gas fires, and disconnecting gas appliances. Robson, of Bavington Drive, pleaded guilty to ten breaches under the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1999.
Sentenced to eight months suspended
On Tuesday, Robson was sentenced to eight months, suspended for two years, at South Tyneside Magistrates Court. He must also complete a six month mental health treatment requirement, and 30 days of rehabilitation activity with the probation service, as well as paying a total of £650 in compensation and prosecution costs.
HSE inspector Darian Dundas said: 'These breaches were carried out brazenly and in the open using social media and faking the Gas Safe logo to tout for business.'
'Little did people know what they were signing up for when they asked him for help; a rogue trader who was not competent to safely carry out the work. All gas work must be carried out by registered Gas Safe Register engineers to ensure the highest standards are met.'
'When they are not, the consequences can be deadly. The public should always ask to see the gas engineer's identification and check the registration number online.'
