To verify a gas installer, check for a valid SAQCC Gas Digital Practitioner Card and ensure they provide a digital Certificate of Conformity (CoC) via the official app. Unregistered gas work is illegal under the OHS Act and voids home insurance.

1. Check the SAQCC Gas National Database

The most reliable way to verify an installer is through the South African Qualification and Certification Committee for Gas (SAQCC Gas). This is the only body mandated by the Department of Employment and Labour to register gas practitioners.

• Step 1: Visit the SAQCC Gas Verification Page.
• Step 2: Search by the installer’s Registration Number, Surname, or Company Name.
• Step 3: Confirm their status is “Active.”

Pro Tip: In 2026, physical cards are often replaced by the Digital Practitioner Card on the installer’s phone. Ask to see it; it should feature a real-time QR code for instant verification.

2. Match the Registration Category to Your Project

Not all gas installers are qualified for all jobs. Hiring a domestic installer for an industrial furnace is a legal and safety violation.

3. Demand the Digital Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

Since 2023, paper CoC books have been phased out in favor of the Electronic CoC. A qualified installer will issue this via the official SAQCC Gas App.

• Why it matters: The digital system prevents the use of forged documents.
• The Law: Under the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER), a CoC is mandatory for any new installation, modification, or repair.
• Insurance Risk: If your house burns down and you cannot produce a valid digital CoC issued by a registered practitioner, your insurance claim will likely be repudiated.

4. Red Flags to Watch For

If your installer does any of the following, they are likely unregistered or non-compliant:

• The “Cheap” Quote: They offer a significantly lower price but say a CoC “isn’t necessary.”
• Orange Hose Issues: They use orange LPG hose through walls or longer than 2 meters (a major safety violation).
• No ID: They cannot produce a digital SAQCC Gas card when asked.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a gas CoC valid for?

A CoC does not expire unless you modify the system. However, it is highly recommended to have a safety inspection every 12–24 months, and a new CoC is required by law when selling a property.

Can a plumber install my gas line?

Only if they are specifically registered with SAQCC Gas. Being a licensed plumber does not automatically qualify someone to work on gas pressure systems.