Selling or buying a caravan, motorhome, camper trailer or boat with gas on board? In Queensland it needs a current gas compliance certificate before it is offered for sale. Clayton inspects the system, fixes defects on the spot where he can and issues the certificate, at your place.
Under Queensland's Petroleum and Gas (Safety) Regulation, a caravan, RV or boat with a gas system must not be offered for sale, new or used, or change ownership without a current gas compliance certificate. Resources Safety & Health Queensland (RSHQ) describes this as a unique Queensland provision, so advice from other states doesn't apply here.
The inspecting gasfitter either issues the certificate or, if something fails, a gas system defect notice listing what needs fixing.
Why the inspection matters
When RSHQ audited recreational vehicle gas systems from Queensland manufacturers, it found 92% were non-compliant. Common problems include incorrect hoses and fittings, missing or damaged flues, poor ventilation, cylinder compartment issues and missing compliance plates.
Recalls happen too. Clayton has completed recall work on caravan appliances for customers when larger repair centres were booked out.
What happens on the day
Visual check of the cylinders, regulator, hoses, pipework, compartment and vents.
Leak and pressure testing of the system.
Each appliance checked for correct operation, flueing and flame-failure safety.
Compliance plate checked (cylinder location, licence number, install date and appliance details).
Certificate issued, or a defect notice with a fixed price to repair.
Many small defects (a perished hose, a leaking fitting, a regulator) can be fixed during the same visit.
Two certificates when you sell
Don't confuse the gas certificate with the roadworthy. Caravans and trailers between 750 kg and 4,500 kg ATM also need a safety certificate (roadworthy) for registration transfer, from an approved inspection station. The gas certificate is separate and must come from a licensed gasfitter.
What customers say
★★★★★
Thanks Clayton for coming out to our residence and completing the Swift 500 recall service in our caravan. Much appreciated. A number of other larger caravan repair centres were “too busy” to do the work, but thanks to you we are safe to use our caravan appliance again.
Do I need a gas certificate to sell my caravan in Queensland?
Yes. A caravan, RV or boat with a gas system must not be offered for sale or change ownership in Queensland without a current gas compliance certificate.
How long is a caravan gas certificate valid for?
For a sale, it is generally accepted as current for three months. If your sale drags on past that, have the system re-inspected.
Can you come to my house or caravan park?
Yes. Inspections are done where the caravan is, across the Sunshine Coast, hinterland and Gympie.
What if my caravan fails?
You get a defect notice listing what needs fixing. Many defects can be repaired on the spot, and you will be given the price before any repair is done.
Do I need a gas certificate for a boat?
Yes. The same Queensland rule covers vessels with gas systems.
