Using a Licensed Gas Line Contractor is the ONLY Safe and Logical Choice

In many instances, choosing the lowest price seems like a smart decision.  But repeatedly, this has proven to be an unwise and a costly mistake for bargain hunters.  An unlicensed contractor or unqualified contractor can leave you with sub-standard work on one of the most critical safety areas of your home:  gas line services.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AROC) explains the problem this way:  “Property owners often look for the lowest price when looking to build or remodel a home.  Since most unlicensed contractors are not bonded or insured and do not pay into the residential contractors’ recovery fund or pay any unemployment compensation for their workers, they can often under bid the licensed professional.  This bottom line may at first be attractive to the property owner, as a way to lower costs and save money.  Most of the time, it is not.”

RP GAS PIPING has witnessed first-hand this growing and problematic trend in our industry, which is not only unethical, but truly dangerous.  Homeowners allow critical work to be performed by unlicensed contractors or by contractors with different licensing – such as general landscaping – that does not qualify them for gas line piping work.  We are often contracted to fix the problems that result from these types of hiring decisions.  Gas lines will fail if the proper procedure and materials are not used when the installation process is completed.  Specific permit procurement is required and must be completed to ensure that the proper inspection of the work is completed.  The outcome of an improper installation can be gas leaks, premature corrosion and propane tank failure.  At best the consumer will pay for the gas line service twice, and at worst, a dangerous accident could occur.

RP GAS PIPING cannot overstate the importance of hiring the proper contractor that is licensed and qualified for gas line and propane tank installation and of verifying a contractor or landscaper’s claim of qualification.  The AROC website offers free information for consumers about how to locate and choose a licensed contractor.  The website further explains that, “… with a licensed contractor, you as a residential property owner have significant protections not available to persons utilizing an unlicensed contractor.  This is your guarantee should the workmanship be below standard or in violation of existing codes.”

Fortunately for consumers in Arizona, AROC makes it easy to check on the licensing and good standing of all contractors in the state.  Check a contractor’s license number online at http://www.azroc.gov/ or by calling 602-542-1525 or toll free 1-877-MYAZROC  (1-877-692-9762)