Fake fitter touted for business on Facebook

An illegal gas fitter who claimed to be registered on social media has been given a suspended prison sentence after carrying out dangerous work on homes in the North-east of England.

South Tyneside Magistrates Court heard that Alexander Robson, 38, from Fenham, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, advertised his services on Facebook and used flyers with the Gas Safe logo despite the fact he wasn’t registered. Robson traded under names including GasnHeat Plumberz and North East Renocationz and carried out gas work on boilers and fires at five homes in Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, Winlaton and Newcastle.

Not only was he working illegally but his work was sub-standard and endangered the lives of those living in the properties. 

Robson had been registered previously aligned to various businesses until 1 February 2024, but continued to work for several months after he was no longer registered.

The HSE investigation found Robson had worked in five homes between June and September 2024. This included boiler replacements as well as installing gas pipework, working on boilers and gas fires, and disconnecting gas appliances.

Alexander Robson pleaded guilty to 10 breaches under the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. He was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for two years. He was ordered to complete a six-month mental health treatment requirement and to complete 30 days of rehabilitation activity with the probation service. He was also told to pay £450 compensation and £200 in costs.

HSE inspector Darian Dundas said: “These breaches were carried out brazenly and in the open using social media and faking the Gas Safe logo to tout for business. Little did people know what they were signing up for when they asked him for help: a rogue trader who was not competent to safely carry out the work.”