Homeowners Warned Over DIY Gas Work

CORGI, the gas safety body, has warned householders that they risk invalidating their home insurance if they tinker with their own electrics or gas appliances rather than using professional tradesmen.

Due to the credit crunch, 41.4% of consumers admitted they were more likely to try to do work themselves, but CORGI says it could also lead to an increase in fatalities as well as creating insurance problems. Only 15% of respondents said they would always use a professional tradesman.

The research, carried out for the Gas Safe Register, found that while 82% of those questioned considered it dangerous to fit a gas fire themselves, one in 10 were still prepared to do so.

Incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained gas appliances are a major cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, and can also lead to gas leaks and explosions.

On average 25 people a year die from CO poisoning, while 40 people a year are killed or injured in gas explosions.

Ann Robinson, Gas Safe Register's director of public awareness, said: "If anyone thinks DIY gas work can save them money, they should think again. For the sake of a few pounds, they risk endangering the life of anyone who lives in that property."