The single most important decision in any boiler job is who you hire. In British Columbia, working on gas appliances legally requires a gas fitter licence, and the quality of the technician determines whether your boiler is safe, efficient and warranty-compliant. Here is how to choose well.
Credentials that matter
- A valid BC gas fitter licence (Class A or B as appropriate) — the legal requirement for gas work.
- Red Seal / trade certification for the technician’s competence.
- The company holding proper licensing to pull gas permits.
- Liability insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage.
Questions worth asking
- Will you pull the gas permit for this work?
- Are your technicians licensed gas fitters and Red Seal certified?
- Do you provide upfront, written pricing?
- Will the boiler be commissioned and gas-pressure tested after the work?
Red flags
Be wary of anyone offering to skip the permit “to save money”, quoting gas work cash-only without licensing, or unwilling to put pricing in writing. Cutting corners on a gas appliance is exactly where safety, insurance and warranty problems begin.
Key takeaways
- Gas work in BC legally requires a licensed gas fitter — verify it.
- Look for Red Seal certification, permit handling, insurance and written pricing.
- Anyone suggesting you skip the permit is a red flag.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a gas fitter is licensed in BC?
Ask for their licence details and confirm the company is licensed to perform gas work and pull permits. A legitimate contractor will be transparent about credentials, insurance and the permit process.
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