Licensed gas fitters for installations, repairs, leak detection and compliance certificates across Northern Sydney. Same-day service for gas leaks. All work certified to AS/NZS 5601.
Gas fitting covers the installation, repair, maintenance and testing of gas supply systems in residential and commercial properties. In Northern Sydney, the majority of properties are connected to the Jemena natural gas network — though some properties in semi-rural areas (Galston, Dural, Berowra Heights) rely on LPG.
Our licensed gas fitters handle gas cooktop and oven installations, gas hot water system connections, gas bayonet point installations for heaters, gas line extensions and new pipe runs, regulator replacements, gas meter relocations, and gas compliance testing for property sales and renovations.
A gas leak is a safety emergency. Natural gas and LPG are both flammable and can cause explosions, fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and asphyxiation. If you smell gas (the distinctive rotten-egg odour added to natural gas), hear a hissing sound near a gas line, or notice dead vegetation near a buried gas pipe — evacuate the building and call from outside.
We use electronic gas detectors and pressure-drop testing to locate leaks precisely — including leaks too small to smell. Pressure-drop testing involves isolating the gas system, pressurising it to a set level, and monitoring for any pressure loss over time. This method detects even micro-leaks in concealed pipework that would otherwise go unnoticed until they become dangerous.
Once located, the leak is repaired immediately — whether it is a failed fitting, corroded pipe section, damaged flexible connector, or faulty appliance valve. The system is then re-tested and certified before gas is restored.
A gas compliance certificate confirms that a gas installation meets AS/NZS 5601 — the Australian Standard for gas installations. In Northern Sydney's active property market, these certificates are frequently required for:
We issue compliance certificates on completion of all gas work. For existing installations, we can inspect and certify the system — or identify and rectify any non-compliant elements before issuing the certificate.
Installing a gas appliance requires a licensed gas fitter to connect the appliance to the gas supply, verify correct gas pressure, check flue and ventilation requirements, and test for leaks. Incorrect installation can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks, appliance damage and voided warranties.
We install all types of gas appliances including gas cooktops and ovens, gas hot water systems (storage and continuous flow), gas space heaters and ducted heating, gas fireplaces, outdoor gas BBQ points, and commercial gas equipment. Each installation is pressure-tested, leak-tested, and certified to AS/NZS 5601 before handover.
Many Northern Sydney homes — particularly in established suburbs like Wahroonga, Turramurra and Gordon — have ageing gas infrastructure that may need upgrading when adding new appliances. If you are replacing an electric cooktop with gas, adding a gas fireplace, or installing a gas continuous-flow hot water system, the existing gas line may not have sufficient capacity.
We assess the existing pipe diameter, calculate the total gas demand of all connected appliances (measured in MJ/hr), and determine whether the supply line can handle the additional load. If not, we extend or upgrade the line — using copper, PE (polyethylene) or stainless steel depending on the application — and re-certify the entire system.
Typical cost ranges for gas fitting services in Northern Sydney (GST-inclusive estimates):
| Service | Cost Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Gas leak detection & repair | $180 – $420+ | Electronic detection, isolation, fitting repair, AS/NZS 5601 certification |
| Gas cooktop installation | $180 – $350+ | Connection to existing bayonet/gas point, pressure test, leak test, certification |
| Gas bayonet point installation | $250 – $450+ | New gas point, pipe run from existing line, pressure test, certification |
| Gas hot water connection | $250 – $500+ | Gas line connection, flue installation (if required), commissioning, certification |
| Gas line extension (per metre) | $80 – $150+/m | New copper or PE pipe, fittings, pressure test, certification |
| Gas compliance certificate (inspection only) | $180 – $320+ | Full system inspection, pressure test, certificate issued |
Source: O'Brien Plumbing cost guide (obrien.com.au). On-site diagnostic included. Fixed prices confirmed before any work starts. 7-year workmanship warranty on all labour.
Most Northern Sydney properties are connected to the Jemena natural gas mains network. However, properties in Galston, Dural, Berowra Heights, and parts of the Hornsby Shire bushland fringe may rely on LPG cylinders. The key differences:
| Factor | Natural Gas (Mains) | LPG (Bottled) |
|---|---|---|
| Supply | Continuous piped supply — never runs out | Finite cylinder supply — requires refills or exchange |
| Energy content | 38.7 MJ/m³ | 95.6 MJ/m³ (propane) — higher energy per unit |
| Running cost | Lower per MJ (typically $0.03–$0.04/MJ) | Higher per MJ (typically $0.06–$0.10/MJ) |
| Availability | Only where Jemena mains network exists | Available anywhere — common in semi-rural Northern Sydney |
| Appliance compatibility | Must be jetted for natural gas | Must be jetted for LPG — different orifice sizes |
| Pressure | 2.75 kPa (low pressure) | 2.75 kPa after regulator (high pressure at cylinder) |
Appliances are not interchangeable between gas types without re-jetting. We handle conversions in both directions and re-certify the installation.
Our gas fitting work in Northern Sydney follows a structured, safety-first workflow that blends technical precision with practical experience. Whether it's a simple gas hot water repair on a Hornsby terrace or a full kitchen appliance installation in a high-rise strata block, we follow the same disciplined steps so every job meets AS/NZS requirements and O’Brien’s internal safety standards.
When you call (02) 9477 1519, our licensed gas plumbers will take initial details: location, the appliance or pipework involved, any smell of gas or symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure, and whether the property is residential, commercial or heritage. If there is an active gas leak, we provide immediate safety instructions — isolating the meter if safe to do so, ventilating the area, and evacuating if necessary — while dispatching an emergency response.
On arrival we begin with a documented safety check and isolation of the affected supply. A standard attendance/diagnostic fee of $180 (inc GST) applies to all call-outs. We then conduct a visual inspection to identify visible corrosion, damaged fittings, evidence of past repairs, improper materials (e.g. ageing galvanised pipework), and any signs of migration from tree roots or soil movement common across Northern Sydney.
We use calibrated gas detectors and electronic leak sniffers to quickly locate escaping gas. For conclusive testing we perform pressure testing with a gas manometer to the relevant industry standard pressure required by AS/NZS 5601 and local regulations. This confirms system integrity from meter to appliance under a controlled test.
For inadequate supply or undersized pipes — a common issue in older Northern Sydney houses — we measure flow characteristics and use pipe sizing calculators and flow meters to check actual delivery versus demand. This prevents underperformance of gas hot water systems and cooktops and ensures safe, compliant pipe sizing if replacement is required.
Every repair or installation is backed by a job-specific risk assessment. For properties with steep access, heritage constraints, or complex drainage and root issues we prepare the appropriate Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). O’Brien operates with 17 SWMS templates that we tailor on-site — scaffolding, hot-work permits, asbestos awareness, confined spaces, working at heights and traffic control are examples.
Repairs are completed using gas-certified materials and methods (mechanical fittings, approved soldering/brazing techniques where permitted, or approved flexible connectors). Where pipe replacement is required we select corrosion resistant materials suitable for the property (taking into account soil conditions, proximity to tree roots and existing plumbing materials). For LPG conversions or new metering works we use the correct regulators, fittings and certified test points.
After installation or repair, each appliance is commissioned with manufacturer-recommended procedures. We check burner settings, flow rates, pilot assemblies and ensure correct combustion and flue performance. Ventilation and flueing are verified to prevent carbon monoxide risk — we will not commission a gas appliance where ventilation or flueing is non-compliant.
Once work is completed we perform final pressure and leak tests and document results. Gas compliance certificates are issued on completion in accordance with regulatory requirements — the certificate accompanies the invoice and is retained in our records. If further work is needed to meet compliance, we provide a clear remedial plan and written quote.
We explain what was done, hand over the compliance certificate, and advise on safe operation and simple checks customers can perform. For complex installations or commercial clients we provide a maintenance schedule. Emergency response details and preventative tips for Northern Sydney properties are provided on-site.
Northern Sydney’s mix of older homes, steep terrain and heavily treed blocks produces a few recurring gas safety and performance issues. Watch for these warning signs and call us promptly if you observe any of them.
A persistent odour of rotten eggs (the mercaptan added to gas) is the most urgent sign. Evacuate, ventilate and call our 24/7 emergency response on (02) 9477 1519.
Hissing or audible leaks at joints and fittings often indicate a pressurised leak and require immediate attention.
Appliance flames that are yellow, orange or flickering can indicate poor combustion or blocked flues — a carbon monoxide risk.
Cold showers from gas hot water systems, weak burners on cooktops, or appliances that fail to reach set temperatures may indicate undersized pipes, blockages or delivery problems commonly found in older homes with copper/galvanised pipework.
Visible corrosion, especially on exposed external runs, is a sign that pipes are approaching end-of-life and should be assessed and possibly replaced.
Roots and excavation on steep sandstone blocks can destabilise and damage buried gas pipes. If you’ve had landscaping or tree removal, schedule an inspection.
New appliance installations or renovations in heritage or strata buildings can introduce non-compliant work. If you notice changes that seem undocumented, request a compliance inspection.
Headaches, nausea, dizziness or unexplained lethargy when gas appliances are operating — particularly in older or poorly ventilated homes — may indicate carbon monoxide presence. Move to fresh air and call for service immediately.
Below is our transparent cost guidance for gas fitting work at properties across Northern Sydney. All attendances incur the standard diagnostic/attendance fee of $180 (inc GST). This covers the time and equipment for a professional inspection, leak detection, basic testing and a remedial recommendation.
$180 (inc GST) — charged for every visit. Includes safety checks, leak detection with calibrated detectors, visual inspection and an initial pressure test. Emergency Response is available 24/7; the $180 diagnostic fee applies to emergency attendances as well. Any further work is quoted separately.
Following the diagnostic inspection we prepare a written quote for remedial work, replacements or installations. The quote details labour estimates, materials, and whether additional permits or distributor approvals are required. We do not proceed without customer authorisation.
Gas compliance certificates are issued on completion of compliant work. The cost of the certificate is included within the final job quote rather than as a stand‑alone fee. If additional testing or rework is required to achieve compliance, those items will be listed separately in the quote.
24/7 emergency attendances are supported from our Hornsby base. The standard attendance charge applies; any additional labour or parts required for immediate temporary repairs will be quoted on-site and recorded on the invoice.
Because Northern Sydney properties range from single-family heritage homes to multi-storey strata complexes, material requirements vary widely. Our written quotes itemise approved gas-certified materials (pipe runs, regulators, flexible connectors, valves, flue components) and list applicable labour. We aim for clarity: you’ll know what is included before we start.
Commercial or strata works often require formal pricing, scope of works, risk assessments and staged commissioning. We provide detailed proposals and asset documentation tailored for maintenance budgets and owner‑corp approval processes.
Gas fitting on a terrace or family home differs significantly from work in commercial kitchens, strata buildings, or industrial settings. Here’s how our approach adapts to each sector in Northern Sydney.
Residential work focuses on single-appliance safety and household comfort. Typical projects include gas hot water repairs, cooktop installations, BBQ fittings, and small pipe replacements. We consider heritage finishes, discreet routing on sandstone slopes, and the presence of mature root systems when planning external reruns. Our technicians balance minimal disruption with robust, long-lasting repairs.
Commercial properties and high-density strata sites demand more rigorous systems-based thinking. Work may involve multiple appliances, large capacity hot water systems, commercial cookers, bulk LPG installations, and integrated metering. We provide staged shutdown plans, asset registers, certificate packs, and maintenance schedules to maintain business continuity. Approvals, notifications and liaison with building managers and owners corporations are part of the process.
Commercial jobs often require engineered designs, pressure loss calculations, and compliance with the building’s maintenance plan. We prepare detailed documentation and station records suitable for compliance audits, insurance, and handover to facility managers.
Northern Sydney’s steep sandstone blocks and heavily treed lots can complicate access for both residential and commercial sites. For larger or riskier jobs in commercial settings we coordinate traffic management, scaffolding and specialist lifting equipment as required, always using our SWMS templates to manage safety.
Preventative care reduces the chance of emergency call-outs and extends the life of gas systems — particularly important in Northern Sydney where ageing pipework, ground movement and dense vegetation are common. Use the following checklist to help protect your family and property.
Service gas hot water systems, space heaters and cooktops annually. Regular servicing catches early combustion or flue problems and reduces carbon monoxide risk.
Check flexible hoses and joints for wear, kinks or corrosion. Replace flexible connectors every few years or when damaged — don’t wait for a leak to appear.
When planning landscaping or tree removal, consider the location of buried gas pipes. Roots can destabilise shallow runs on sandstone, and aggressive soil can accelerate corrosion in older metals. Consider sleeving or rerouting exposed underground runs where practical.
Heavy foliage around rooflines combined with blocked gutters increases the risk of flue obstruction and poor ventilation. Trim back vegetation, clear gutters and ensure flues have a clear air path.
Before any renovation, ask for a gas safety inspection and compliance certificate if new gas work is planned. This is especially important in heritage homes where concealed pipework might be disturbed.
For apartment owners, coordinate gas servicing with the owners corporation. Regular mass-checks of common area metering and risers prevent failures that affect multiple units.
Install a mains-powered carbon monoxide detector with battery backup near sleeping areas in properties with gas appliances; test detectors regularly.
Ensure all household members know how to safely isolate the gas meter. In multi-unit buildings, know your unit shut-off and who to contact for building-level isolation.
The right tools produce accurate diagnostics and safer, faster repairs. Our gas fitters use calibrated, industry‑grade equipment for every inspection, test and commissioning task.
Manometers allow us to perform precise pressure tests to the standards required by AS/NZS 5601. These tests confirm the integrity of a system from meter to appliance and are essential for issuing a compliance certificate.
Portable, calibrated gas detectors locate and quantify leaks quickly and safely. In symptomatic situations, detectors are used alongside visual inspection and soap tests to confirm leak locations.
These tools help us verify that pipe runs deliver the correct pressure and volume for the installed appliances. This is especially important in Northern Sydney where older pipework and long external runs on sloping blocks can suffer pressure loss.
Commissioning requires calibrated spanners, test points, adjustment tools and access to manufacturer data. Proper commissioning ensures efficient, safe combustion and correct burner settings.
Working on steep, treed Northern Sydney blocks or heritage roofs demands proper fall arrest, harnesses and site-specific SWMS. We bring the right PPE and access equipment to keep staff and your property safe.
All our measurement equipment is calibrated and records are maintained for compliance. Accurate test data is essential for reliable compliance certificates and long-term asset management.
Choosing the right gas fitter matters for safety, compliance and peace of mind. O’Brien is uniquely placed to deliver high-quality gas fitting services in Northern Sydney for several reasons:
Many gas appliances require roof or wall penetrations for flues and exhausts. Because O’Brien is both a licensed plumbing and roofing contractor, we manage flue flashings, roof penetrations and wall terminations correctly and sympathetically — especially important on heritage roofs and steep sandstone blocks.
Our technicians hold current gas fitting licences and appropriate insurance. We work to the Gas Standards and AS/NZS 5601 requirements and issue gas compliance certificates on completion.
We operate with 17 Safe Work Method Statements covering common and complex tasks. Each job is assessed and the appropriate SWMS applied to control hazards — from hot work to working at heights on steep Hornsby blocks.
O’Brien is actively pursuing ISO 9001 certification. Our systems focus on continual improvement, documented procedures and consistent delivery across residential and commercial projects.
Emergency gas leak response is available around the clock from our Hornsby base. We understand the urgency of gas incidents and prioritise safety and rapid containment.
We apply a transparent $180 (inc GST) diagnostic/attendance fee for all visits and provide written quotes and compliance certificates upon completion of work.
We have experience across the local mix: 1950s–1970s homes with ageing copper and galvanised plumbing, heritage properties needing careful reinstatement, and strata buildings requiring coordinated commercial-grade servicing.
Immediately ventilate the area by opening doors and windows, do not operate electrical switches or phones near the smell, and evacuate occupants to a safe distance. If safe and accessible, turn off the gas at the meter. Call our 24/7 emergency line on (02) 9477 1519. We will dispatch a licensed gas fitter to assess and isolate the leak and perform emergency repairs or recommend further work.
The $180 (inc GST) covers the attending technician’s time, safety checks, basic pressure testing with a manometer, leak detection using calibrated detectors, and a written initial diagnosis. Any repair work, parts or further testing are quoted separately and only commenced with your approval.
Yes. We issue gas compliance certificates on completion of any installation, repair or compliance test that meets regulatory standards. The certificate is included in the final job documentation and kept on file for future reference.
Yes. Our licensed gas fitters are experienced with both natural gas and LPG installations, regulator selection, conversion requirements and the specific safety checks for each fuel type. We ensure regulators and fittings are appropriate for the service.
We use electronic gas detectors to locate leaks and perform regulated pressure tests using calibrated manometers to confirm system integrity per AS/NZS 5601. We also use soap tests at joints for confirmation where appropriate. All testing is documented.
Many homes built in the 1950s–1970s in Northern Sydney still contain copper or galvanised gas pipework which may be nearing the end of its service life. We inspect for corrosion, pitting and mechanical damage. Replacement is recommended when pipes fail pressure testing, show extensive corrosion, or are undersized for modern appliance demands. We provide a written quote detailing options and materials suited to your site conditions.
Yes. We regularly undertake work in multi-unit and strata properties. For strata we liaise with building managers, owners corporations and occupiers to coordinate access, minimise disruption, provide documentation and ensure any common area metering or riser work is executed to commercial standards.
We recommend annual servicing for gas hot water systems and other gas appliances. Annual servicing identifies early wear, combustion issues, flue and ventilation problems — especially important in Northern Sydney where trees and roof debris can affect flueing and ventilation.
We check combustion performance and flue operation during commissioning and servicing. Where required or requested we can measure CO levels and advise on corrections or recommend CO detectors for the home. We will not commission appliances where ventilation or flueing creates an unacceptable CO risk.
Certain meter or regulator modifications, meter relocations, and connections to the gas network require notification or coordination with the gas distributor. We manage that liaison and obtain necessary approvals when required, then complete the work to the distributor’s requirements.
O’Brien provides gas fitting services across Northern Sydney from our Hornsby base. Our local knowledge of terrain, building types and common regional issues helps us deliver safe, compliant outcomes quickly.
Our base — we respond rapidly to Hornsby residents and businesses. The area combines family homes, older post-war houses and commercial strips requiring both domestic and commercial gas expertise.
Berowra’s steep lots and bushland bordering the national park mean root issues and access considerations are common; we plan works to minimise landscape impact and protect exposed runs.
These suburbs feature a mixture of 1960s–1980s housing and newer infill developments. We handle conversions, pipe upgrades and appliance commissioning across these neighbourhoods.
Older plumbing and close‑set block arrangements make careful planning essential. We provide discreet, heritage‑sensitive solutions for gas lines and roof penetrations.
Steep sandstone blocks and mature trees are common here — we manage access, root intrusion risks and ensure flueing clears heavy foliage.
Wahroonga has many heritage and larger family homes. Our dual roofing and gas fitting capability is particularly useful here where flues and roof flashings must match existing roof profiles sensitively.
Along the Hawkesbury corridor and river edges, we adapt to properties with access constraints and provide reliable service for both holiday homes and permanent residences.
If your suburb is nearby and not listed above, call (02) 9477 1519. We cover a wide area from our Hornsby base and can often respond to urgent matters the same day.
For urgent gas leaks, suspected carbon monoxide issues, or to arrange a diagnostic inspection and written quote, contact our Hornsby team on (02) 9477 1519. O’Brien’s licensed gas fitters provide practical, compliant, and safety-first gas fitting services for Northern Sydney homes and businesses.
Evacuate immediately. Do not operate light switches, phones or any electrical equipment inside the building. Turn off the gas meter if you can do so safely. Call us from outside on (02) 9477 1519 or call 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532).
Yes. NSW law requires all gas fitting work — including connecting appliances to an existing gas point — to be performed by a licensed gas fitter. Unlicensed work is illegal, dangerous and voids warranties.
Gas leak detection and repair typically costs $180–$420+ depending on the complexity. This includes electronic detection, isolation, repair of the failed fitting or pipe section, and AS/NZS 5601 certification.
Yes. We re-jet appliances for the correct gas type, adjust regulators, and re-certify the installation. This is common when moving between mains-gas and LPG areas.
We cover Hornsby, Wahroonga, Turramurra, Gordon, Pymble, Asquith, Mt Colah, Berowra, Thornleigh, Pennant Hills, Normanhurst, Waitara, Cherrybrook, Galston, Dural and surrounding areas.
Need a Licensed Gas Fitter?
Same-day service for gas leaks. All work certified to AS/NZS 5601. Call (02) 9477 1519 or request a quote online.