An illegal gas fitter has been fined for endangering a family after he unsafely fitted a new boiler at their home in Tooting.

Mussrat Ahamed from Morden removed the family's boiler and installed a new one, leaving 13 defects, including one identified as an 'immediate danger' to life or property if the appliance had been left connected or operated.

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) had previously served Ahmed with a Prohibition Notice preventing him from carrying out work until he was recognised as competent and registered with the Gas Safe Register.

"This family's boiler had serious defects because Ahamed lacked the appropriate skills to perform this work safely. He knew he wasn't Gas Safe registered, and although he understood the legal requirement to be registered he was under the impression that the work he undertook didn't constitute gas work because he didn't tamper with the supply.

"This is a worrying misconception amongst some plumbers and trades people - although the Gas Safety Regulations make it clear that only authorised engineers should carry out any work involving gas fittings or servicing.

"Gas Safe Registration is in place to ensure that only those who achieve and can demonstrate competence are allowed to work on gas systems."