An unregistered gas engineer who carried out illegal and potentially dangerous work at five properties across the North East has been sentenced at South Tyneside magistrates.
Alexander Robson, 38, of Bavington Drive, Fenham, admitted ten breaches of the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1999 when he appeared at court on Tuesday, 14 July.
What the court heard
Robson was found to have worked on boilers and gas fires and carried out pipework and appliance disconnection at homes in Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, Winlaton and Newcastle. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) established that the work took place between June and September 2024.
Although Robson had previously been listed on the Gas Safe Register until 1 February 2024, he continued to offer services after his registration ended. He traded under business names including GasnHeat Plumberz and North East Renocationz, and used flyers carrying the Gas Safe logo to advertise his services on social media and in print.
Sentence and requirements
The magistrates handed down an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. In addition, Robson must complete the following:
- Six months of a mental health treatment requirement;
- 30 days of rehabilitation activity overseen by the Probation Service;
- Pay £450 in compensation;
- Contribute £200 towards prosecution costs.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Alexander Robson, 38 |
| Address given | Bavington Drive, Fenham |
| Offences admitted | Ten breaches of Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1999 |
| Areas affected | Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, Winlaton, Newcastle |
| Sentence | Eight months suspended for two years |
Risk and reaction
The HSE said the work was not only illegal but also sub-standard and put lives at risk at one of the homes. Carrying out gas work without being registered can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning, hazards that make proper enforcement essential.
“These breaches were carried out
Magistrates and enforcement bodies continue to stress that homeowners should always check engineers on the official Gas Safe Register before allowing work to be carried out. The register confirms an installer is authorised to work on specific types of gas appliances.
For residents unsure about a tradesperson’s credentials, the Gas Safe Register can be checked online or by phone. If anyone suspects unsafe or illegal gas work has been carried out at their property, they are advised to contact the HSE and seek an independent Gas Safe–registered engineer to inspect installations.
This case highlights the ongoing danger from unregistered work and the importance of verifying installers’ credentials, particularly when boilers and gas appliances are involved.
William Bennett, South Tyneside News Correspondent
