18.2 million Brits admit turning to unregulated goods and illegal tradespeople as cost-of-living pressures grow

More than 18.2 million Brits are turning to unregulated goods and illegal or unqualified tradespeople as cost-of-living pressures continue to strain household budgets, according to new research commissioned by Gas Safe Register. 

The survey of 2,000 UK adults found 53 per cent have changed their spending habits over the past year, with many prioritising lower costs over safety, quality and peace of mind. Rising fuel prices (48 per cent) and reduced disposable income (44 per cent) were cited as the biggest drivers behind changing spending habits, with millions admitting they have been forced to cut corners to make ends meet. 

The findings reveal a growing willingness to take risks, with 28 per cent admitting they have cut costs on home maintenance and DIY, including hiring unregistered tradespeople. Meanwhile, 36 per cent said they are now more likely to accept risks than in previous years and 12 per cent said they would consider using an unregistered gas worker to save money, and 16 per cent admitted they delayed routine gas safety checks. 

However, more than half (51 per cent) said efforts to save money had backfired, leaving them paying more to fix or replace work.   

Gas Safe Register has partnered with former Gas Safe registered engineer and ex-England rugby player Shaunagh Brown to raise awareness of the dangers.  

“I understand why people are looking to save money right now, but when it comes to gas work and essential safety checks, cutting corners simply isn’t worth the risk,” commented Shaunagh. “The short-term savings can quickly much bigger costs – or worse, put your household in danger. It’s about making informed choices and making sure the people working in your home are properly qualified and legally Gas Safe registered.” 

Shaunagh’s top safety tips: 

• Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer
  Only ever use a properly qualified and legally registered engineer for any gas work. You can check credentials and find registered engineers at Gas Safe Register.  

• Verify credentials before any work begins
  Ask to see a Gas Safe Register ID card. Ensure the engineer is qualified for the specific type of work you need carrying out.  

• Never risk using unqualified or illegally operating tradespeople
  Even small savings can lead to unsafe work, repeat costs, or serious safety risks including gas leaks, fires, or carbon monoxide exposure.  

• Stay alert to warning signs of unsafe gas appliances
  Look out for symptoms such as lazy yellow flames, black marks around appliances, excess condensation, or signs of poor performance.  

• Prioritise annual safety checks and spread awareness
  Ensure gas appliances are serviced annually by a registered engineer and share safety advice with friends and family to help reduce the risk of unsafe or illegal work in your community.