Gas Safe vs general handyman work: what's the difference?

A handyman is brilliant for the long list of small jobs around the house. But there's one area where you must not cut corners or save a few quid: anything involving gas. In the UK, gas work is legally restricted, and getting it wrong can be deadly. Here's how to know which job needs which trade.

The simple rule

Any work on a gas appliance, gas pipe or flue must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. That's the law (the Gas Safe Register replaced CORGI back in 2009). A general handyman — however skilled and well-meaning — is not legally allowed to do gas work unless they personally hold Gas Safe registration.

If a handyman offers to "just have a look at your boiler" or move a gas hob, that's a red flag. Politely decline and call a Gas Safe engineer.

Jobs that MUST be done by a Gas Safe engineer

• Installing, servicing or repairing a gas boiler.
• Fitting or moving a gas hob, cooker or oven.
• Installing or servicing a gas fire or gas water heater.
• Any work on gas pipework or a flue.
• Annual gas safety checks (and landlords legally must have these done yearly).

If gas work is done by someone unregistered, it may be unsafe, it can invalidate your home insurance and your boiler warranty, and it's illegal.

Jobs a general handyman can do

A handyman or general tradesperson is perfect for the everyday stuff:

• Putting up shelves, mirrors, blinds and curtain poles.
• Flat-pack furniture assembly.
• Hanging doors, easing sticking windows, fixing handles and locks.
• Filling, sanding, basic patch plastering and painting.
• Sealing baths and sinks, replacing taps (water only, not gas).
• Minor carpentry, fence repairs, jet-washing, odd jobs.
• Replacing light fittings or sockets only if competent — note that bigger electrical jobs may need a registered electrician under Part P of the Building Regulations.

What about electrics and water?

• Water/plumbing isn't legally restricted the way gas is, but for anything beyond simple jobs a qualified plumber is wiser. (See how much a plumber costs.)
• Electrics: small jobs (like changing a light fitting) can be done by a competent person, but certain work — especially in kitchens, bathrooms and new circuits — falls under Part P and should be done or certified by a registered electrician.
• Gas: no grey area. Gas Safe only.

How to check a Gas Safe engineer

Every registered engineer carries a Gas Safe ID card. Always:

• Ask to see the card.
• Check the front (photo, licence number, start/expiry dates) and the back (the specific gas work they're qualified for — e.g. boilers, cookers).
• Verify the number on the official Gas Safe Register (gassaferegister.co.uk) or by calling them.

Don't be shy about asking — a genuine engineer expects it.

Find the right trade for the job

For everyday jobs, browse local handymen on GotAPal and read real reviews from people nearby. For anything involving gas, make sure you choose a Gas Safe registered engineer — and always check that ID card before any work starts.