Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
Animals trapped behind gas appliances
The removal of birds and other animals trapped behind gas appliances is not the responsibility of the RSPCA. We are not qualified to interfere with any gas fittings to attempt the release of trapped animals.
Only British Gas service engineers or Gas Safe Register engineers are permitted and qualified to disconnect/reconnect gas mains or appliances. If an animal becomes trapped behind a gas appliance, members of the public should contact a qualified engineer to have the appliance disconnected and then reconnected. Contact details for qualified engineers can be found in telephone directories, on the internet or by calling directory enquiries, etc.
Note: National Grid no longer disconnect gas fires inside properties
A charge will be made for the service and the amount varies throughout the country. All costs of disconnection or reconnection are the responsibility of the tenant, homeowner or pet owner. The RSPCA cannot pay for or make a contribution to the cost of disconnecting or reconnecting a gas appliance.
Pensioners may wish to approach Age UK for assistance, whilst anyone on benefits should appeal to their gas supplier in the first instance.
People wishing to complain about a gas supplier or engineer should read the advice on the Consumer Direct website or contact 08454 04 05 06. Consumer Direct can also be contacted by e-mail via their website.
Prevention is better than cure and if the problem re-occurs it may be worth fitting a chimney cowl before birds start nesting there again.
*** Note*** - The Gas Safe Register replaced CORGI in Great Britain on April 1st 2009.
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