When a licensed gasfitter completes work at your home in New Zealand, you have real legal protections — not just a handshake promise. Understanding what warranties apply, and how long they last, helps you know exactly where you stand if something goes wrong.
Your Legal Rights Under the Consumer Guarantees Act
All gasfitting work carried out for domestic purposes is covered by the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (CGA). This means the work must be completed with reasonable care and skill, be fit for purpose, and be finished within a reasonable time. These guarantees apply automatically — you don't need to negotiate them into a contract.
If the work fails to meet these standards, you're entitled to have the problem remedied at no extra cost. If the tradesperson refuses or can't fix it, you may be entitled to have someone else do the repair and claim the cost back. There is no fixed time limit written into the CGA itself — the guarantee lasts for as long as it is reasonable to expect the work to hold up, which for gasfitting could be many years depending on the nature of the job.
For more detail on your consumer rights, Consumer NZ is a great starting point.
Workmanship Warranties from the Tradesperson
Beyond your CGA rights, many licensed gasfitters offer an explicit workmanship warranty — typically ranging from 12 months to 5 years, though this varies between businesses. Always ask before work begins:
- How long is the workmanship warranty?
- Is it in writing?
- What does it cover — parts, labour, or both?
- Are there any exclusions?
Get the warranty terms in writing as part of your quote or invoice. A reputable tradesperson will have no hesitation providing this.
Appliance and Product Warranties
If your gasfitter installs a new appliance — such as a gas hob, oven, hot water heater, or central heating unit — the manufacturer's warranty applies separately to the workmanship warranty. These typically run from 1 to 5 years depending on the brand and product type, and some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an additional cost.
Key points to be aware of:
- Keep your proof of purchase and installation records. Many manufacturers require evidence of installation by a licensed gasfitter to validate the warranty.
- Register your appliance with the manufacturer promptly after installation.
- Manufacturer warranties generally cover defects in materials or manufacture, not damage caused by misuse or improper installation.
If an appliance fails due to a fault in how it was installed rather than a product defect, that falls back on the gasfitter's workmanship warranty and your CGA rights.
What Gasfitting Work Requires a Licensed Professional?
In New Zealand, gasfitting is restricted work under the Gas Act 1992. It must be carried out by a tradesperson who is registered and licensed with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). This includes:
- Installing, altering, or repairing gas pipework
- Connecting or disconnecting gas appliances
- Commissioning gas systems
Homeowners are not permitted to carry out gasfitting work themselves, even minor alterations. Unlicensed work is illegal, dangerous, and will void any warranties — including the manufacturer's warranty on appliances.
Always check that your gasfitter holds a current licence. You can verify this on the PGDB website.
Safety note: Gas leaks and faulty installations can cause fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Never attempt gasfitting work yourself, and if you smell gas, leave the building immediately and call your gas supplier or 111.
Certificates of Compliance
Once gasfitting work is completed, your tradesperson is legally required to issue a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). This document confirms the work meets the requirements of the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010 and the NZ Building Code. Keep this certificate safe — it is important evidence for:
- Insurance claims
- Future property sales
- Warranty disputes
If your gasfitter does not provide a CoC, contact the PGDB immediately.
What Affects Your Warranty?
Certain actions can reduce or void your warranty protections:
| Action | Effect on Warranty |
|---|---|
| Tampering with installed work | May void workmanship warranty |
| Using unlicensed tradespeople for follow-up work | May void manufacturer warranty |
| Failing to service appliances as recommended | May void manufacturer warranty |
| Not registering appliance with manufacturer | May limit warranty claim options |
Regular servicing by a licensed gasfitter is the best way to keep warranties intact and your system running safely. MBIE Building Performance provides guidance on compliance obligations for building work including gas installations.
When to Call a Professional
Always use a licensed gasfitter for any gas-related work — this is a legal requirement in New Zealand, not just a recommendation. If you believe work has been done poorly or a warranty claim is being unfairly declined, you can:
- Contact the tradesperson in writing, citing your CGA rights
- Lodge a complaint with the PGDB if the tradesperson is licensed
- Seek advice from Consumer NZ or the Disputes Tribunal for unresolved disputes
You can find qualified, licensed gasfitters in your area through tradedirectory.co.nz.
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