Before anyone works on your boiler or any gas appliance, there's one question worth asking: are you a Registered Gas Installer? In Ireland it isn't just good practice – it's the law. Here's what it means and how to check.
What is an RGI?
RGI stands for Registered Gas Installer. The RGI scheme keeps the official register of qualified gas installers in Ireland. It is run by Safe Energy Ireland as the Gas Safety Supervisory Body appointed by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), the regulator. Until 2023 the scheme was known as RGII (the Register of Gas Installers of Ireland), so you may still see both names.
To be registered, an installer must hold the right qualifications and is inspected on their work.
It's the law
Irish law requires anyone carrying out domestic gas work to be registered with RGI. That includes boiler installations, repairs and services, gas cookers and fires, and pipework. According to the CRU, carrying out gas work without being registered can lead to a fine of up to €15,000 and/or up to three years in prison.
The law exists because badly fitted or poorly maintained gas appliances can cause fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.
How to check an engineer is registered
- Ask to see their RGI ID card. Every registered installer carries one, showing their name, photo, registration number and an expiry date.
- Check the register online at rgi.ie. You can search by county and by the type of work you need.
- Check what they're registered for. Installers are registered for specific types of work, so make sure it covers the job you need done.
If someone can't show you RGI registration, don't let them work on your gas appliances.
The paperwork you should get
When an RGI finishes a job, they must give you a Declaration of Conformance certificate for the work. There are different certificates for different jobs – one for boiler installations, repairs and replacements, and another for other gas work such as servicing, safety checks and pipework. Keep these safe: you may need them for your boiler warranty, home insurance, or if you sell or rent the property.
What if I think someone isn't registered?
You can report suspected illegal gas work to RGI through rgi.ie. If you're worried that work done in your home may be unsafe, stop using the appliance and get it checked by a registered installer.
Fully RGI registered
GB Gas Services are RGI registered engineers who have been looking after boilers in Dublin for 25 years. Every job comes with the correct certificate. Get in touch or call 0872 855 624.