An illegal gas fitter who brazenly advertised his services on social media despite not being registered has received an eight-month suspended prison sentence for carrying out dangerous work in homes across the North East. Alexander Robson, 38, was sentenced on 14 July 2026 at South Tyneside Magistrates Court after his sub-standard gas work endangered the lives of residents in five properties. The court also ordered Robson to complete a six-month mental health treatment requirement, undertake 30 days of rehabilitation activity, pay £450 in compensation, and contribute £200 towards prosecution costs.
Unregistered engineer endangered lives across North East homes
Robson, of Bavington Drive in Fenham, operated under various business names, including GasnHeat Plumberz and North East Renocationz. He actively promoted his services on platforms like Facebook and distributed flyers that deceptively displayed the Gas Safe logo, despite having no legitimate registration. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that Robson had previously been on the Gas Safe Register but continued to undertake gas work for several months after his registration lapsed on 1 February 2024, knowingly operating outside legal requirements.
Between June and September 2024, Robson carried out a range of gas-related tasks in properties located in Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, Winlaton, and Newcastle. This included the installation of new gas pipework, undertaking work on boilers and gas fires, and the disconnection of gas appliances. In one instance, his activities were captured on a homeowner’s Ring doorbell camera, providing crucial evidence of his unregistered operations. The work he performed was not only illegal but also fell significantly below safety standards, creating serious risks for the occupants of these homes.
The dangers associated with unqualified gas work are profound and can have catastrophic consequences. Unsafe installations or repairs can lead to severe gas leaks, which can ignite, causing fires or explosions. Furthermore, faulty gas appliances can produce carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless gas that is highly toxic and can lead to serious illness or even death. Robson’s actions directly exposed residents to these life-threatening hazards, underscoring the critical importance of using only Gas Safe registered engineers.
Robson pleaded guilty to ten breaches under the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations 1999, acknowledging the severity of his unlawful conduct.
The suspended sentence serves as a warning to individuals who attempt to circumvent vital safety regulations for personal gain, highlighting that such actions will be met with serious legal repercussions. The additional requirements for mental health treatment and rehabilitation reflect a broader approach to justice, aiming to address underlying issues while ensuring public safety.
HSE inspector Darian Dundas commented on the case, emphasising the brazen nature of Robson’s deception. “This individual deliberately misled the public, using social media and fake logos to attract business,” Dundas stated. “Consumers unknowingly entrusted their safety to a rogue trader who lacked the competence to carry out gas work safely. It is imperative that all gas work is performed by engineers registered with the Gas Safe Register to guarantee the highest safety standards. When these standards are ignored, the potential consequences, including gas leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning, can be fatal. The public must always request to see an engineer’s Gas Safe identification and verify their registration online.”
The Health and Safety Executive continues to actively pursue and prosecute individuals who flout gas safety laws, reinforcing its commitment to protecting people and places across Britain. This prosecution, brought by HSE Enforcement Lawyer Iain Jordan and supported by Paralegal Officer Stephen Grabe, underscores the regulator’s dedication to maintaining stringent safety standards within the gas industry. Consumers are strongly advised to always check the credentials of any gas engineer before allowing them to commence work.
This story was originally published by HSE Media Centre.
