Getting your kitchen ready before a gasfitter arrives is one of the easiest ways to keep the job running smoothly and avoid paying for time spent shifting furniture or tracking down information. A bit of preparation goes a long way — and it helps your tradesperson get straight to work safely and efficiently.
Clear the Work Area
Gasfitters need clear, safe access to your appliances, cabinetry, and gas connections. Before they arrive:
- Remove items from benchtops near the cooktop or oven, including small appliances, utensils, and food.
- Clear out the cabinet beneath the cooktop or behind the oven if your appliance is freestanding — this is often where the gas flexible hose and isolation valve are located.
- Move any furniture that blocks access to the work zone, including bar stools, kitchen islands on wheels, or dining chairs.
- If your gasfitter is working near a pantry or wall cabinet, empty the shelves closest to the work area to protect your belongings from dust or accidental knocks.
Locate Your Gas Meter and Isolation Valve
Know where your gas meter is located (usually outside on an exterior wall) and where the main isolation valve is. Your gasfitter may need to shut off the gas supply before starting work. If you're unsure where these are, have a look before the appointment so you're not scrambling on the day.
Also check whether you have a flexible gas hose connecting your cooktop or oven to the wall outlet — these have a limited service life and your gasfitter may recommend replacing it as part of the job. It's worth having a look beforehand so you can mention it.
Have Your Appliance Details Ready
If you're having a new appliance installed or an existing one serviced, gather the following:
- Make and model of the appliance (usually on a sticker inside the door or on the back)
- Installation manual if you have it — gasfitters appreciate having the manufacturer's specs on hand
- Whether the appliance is set up for natural gas or LPG (these require different jet sizes and pressure settings)
- Any warranty paperwork, especially if the appliance is new
If you're unsure which gas type you have, check your gas bill or look at your meter — natural gas is reticulated (piped from the street), while LPG is supplied by a bottle or tank on your property.
Check What Work Requires a Licensed Gasfitter
In New Zealand, all gas fitting work is restricted work under the Gas Act 1992 and must be carried out by a licensed gasfitter registered with the Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board (PGDB). This includes:
- Installing, modifying, or repairing gas pipework
- Connecting or disconnecting gas appliances
- Replacing flexible gas hoses
- Commissioning or testing gas installations
As a homeowner, you cannot legally do any of this work yourself, even if it looks straightforward. Always ask to see your tradesperson's current practising licence — you can verify it on the PGDB website.
Safety note: Never attempt to connect or disconnect a gas appliance yourself. If you smell gas at any time, leave the building immediately, avoid using switches or flames, and call your gas supplier or 111.
Think About Ventilation and Access for Inspections
If your gasfitter is installing a new cooktop or range hood, they may need to check that your kitchen has adequate ventilation as required under NZ Building Code clause G15 (air contaminants). Make sure any existing range hood or exhaust fan is accessible and that you know whether it vents to outside or recirculates.
For new installations or significant alterations, a building consent may be required — check with your local council. Some minor work may qualify as a Schedule 1 exemption, but always confirm this with your council before assuming no consent is needed. Your gasfitter can often advise on this too. For more guidance, visit MBIE Building Performance.
Arrange for Someone to Be Home
Make sure an adult is present for the duration of the job. Your gasfitter will need to:
- Ask questions about how you use the appliance
- Show you how to operate any new equipment safely
- Get your sign-off on the completed work
- Provide you with a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for the gas work — keep this document safe, as you may need it when selling your home or making an insurance claim
Plan for the Gas to Be Off
Depending on the scope of work, your gas supply may be off for anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. Plan accordingly:
- Have an alternative way to boil water (electric kettle, microwave)
- Let other household members know in advance
- If you have a gas hot water system, be aware that hot water may also be temporarily unavailable
When to Call a Professional
Any time gas pipework, appliance connections, or gas pressure is involved, you must use a licensed gasfitter — there are no exceptions under NZ law. If you notice a gas smell, a hissing sound near pipes, or your appliance isn't performing as expected, don't delay. Find a qualified local gasfitter through tradedirectory.co.nz to get the job done safely and legally.
Certifying Plumber
