If your home runs on gas — whether it’s for heating, hot water, or cooking — it’s essential to know who you need to call when something goes wrong. You’ve probably heard the terms “gas fitter” and “gas plumber”, but what do they actually mean? Are they the same? Do you need one or both? In this expanded 2025 guide, we unpack the key differences, explain when to call each one, and show you how to get it done legally, safely, and efficiently with the right licensed professional through AIreno.

🔍 What Is a Gas Fitter?

A gas fitter is a fully licensed tradesperson who specialises in working with natural gas and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) systems. Their job is to ensure gas flows safely and efficiently through your home or workplace. Because gas is a flammable and hazardous substance, only professionals with specific training and certification can legally handle any gas-related work in Australia.

Gas fitters are often called in for new installations, system upgrades, compliance checks, or emergency gas leak repairs. They play a critical role in maintaining the safety of gas infrastructure across homes, commercial kitchens, caravans, boats, and industrial sites.

Typical jobs a gas fitter handles:

• Installing and connecting gas pipes to mains or LPG tanks
• Servicing and maintaining gas appliances like ovens, cooktops, BBQs and heaters
• Installing pressure regulators and gas safety valves
• Fitting LPG systems for caravans, boats, or off-grid setups
• Testing for leaks and conducting pressure tests
• Installing gas appliance flues and ventilation systems
• Designing and interpreting gas system schematics
• Disconnecting or decommissioning gas lines

Gas fitters must provide a Gas Compliance Certificate for all installations and upgrades. This proves the work meets Australian safety standards and is vital for insurance and resale purposes.

👨‍🔧 What Is a Gas Plumber?

A gas plumber is a qualified plumber who has gone on to complete extra training in gas fitting. Not all gas fitters are plumbers, but many plumbers choose to become dual-qualified so they can offer a full suite of plumbing and gas services. These tradespeople are invaluable on renovation or construction jobs that involve both water and gas infrastructure.

How does someone become a gas plumber?

To legally work as a gas plumber in Australia, a tradesperson must:

• Complete a Certificate III in Plumbing (Apprenticeship)
• Undertake additional gas fitting units or complete a Certificate IV in Plumbing Services
• Apply for a gas fitting endorsement on their plumbing licence
• Work under a provisional licence before becoming fully certified

Gas plumbers are versatile professionals who can manage the crossover between plumbing and gas systems — such as when fitting a gas hot water unit or a gas-powered hydronic heating system.

Common gas plumber jobs:

• Installing or upgrading hot water systems (gas-powered)
• Connecting gas stoves or ovens during kitchen renos
• Running gas lines in new builds or extensions
• Performing emergency gas pipe repairs
• Commissioning and testing new gas appliances
• Handling integrated water/gas system layouts

⚖️ Gas Fitter vs Gas Plumber: Key Differences

Let’s break down how these two roles compare.

In short: Gas fitters focus purely on gas, while gas plumbers offer both water and gas services. This is especially useful during renovations where plumbing and gas works often overlap.

📋 When Do You Need a Gas Fitter vs a Gas Plumber?

It depends on the job. Here’s a simple breakdown:

In most cases, if plumbing is involved alongside gas (e.g. hot water, kitchen renos, bathrooms), you’ll want a gas plumber. If it’s a standalone gas task, a gas fitter is perfect.

🛑 Is DIY Gas Work Legal in Australia?

No. In every Australian state and territory, it is illegal to carry out gas fitting work unless you are a licensed tradesperson.

Gas is dangerous. Faulty installations or repairs can result in:

• Explosions
• Fires
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Death

Legal consequences include:

• Massive fines
• Voided insurance policies
• Criminal charges
• Invalidation of home warranties or appliance guarantees
• Risk of injury or property damage

Even replacing a gas bayonet fitting, shifting a gas appliance, or adjusting a regulator must be done by a licensed gas fitter or gas plumber. They must also issue a Gas Compliance Certificate or apply an Appliance Plate to confirm the work is safe and legal.

📜 How to Check if Someone Is Licensed for Gas Work

To protect yourself:

• Ask to see their gas licence or plumbing licence with gas endorsement
• Confirm their qualifications match the task
• Look for public liability insurance
• Request a Gas Compliance Certificate after the work is done

You can also verify their licence through your state regulator:

• NSW Fair Trading
• VIC Building Authority
• QLD QBCC
• SA Consumer and Business Services

💡 What to Ask Before You Hire

• Are you licensed for gas fitting in this state?
• Do you also handle plumbing?
• Will I receive a Gas Compliance Certificate?
• Can you provide an itemised quote upfront?
• Do you have customer reviews or past work I can see?

If you want peace of mind, AIreno only works with fully licensed, insured and vetted professionals. You get instant quotes, transparent scopes of work, and guaranteed compliance.

🔧 Planning a Renovation? You’ll Likely Need Both

Renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry? If gas and water are both involved, you’ll need a gas plumber who can handle:

• Installing a gas cooktop and connecting a sink
• Fitting a new gas hot water system
• Moving gas and water lines to new positions

With AIreno, you can plan every step of your reno:

• ✅ Instant pricing and quoting tools
• ✅ Auto-matched with dual-licensed tradespeople
• ✅ Timeline and project planning support
• ✅ Fixed price transparency, no hidden costs

📍 Start planning today at AIreno.com.au

Final Word

Whether you need a gas fitter, gas plumber, or both — one thing is certain: gas work is never DIY.

With licensed professionals, you get peace of mind, legal protection, and safety you can count on. With AIreno, you get all that plus instant quotes, clear scopes, and access to the best tradies in the country.

Plan smarter. Stay safe. Get it done right — with AIreno.