We are looking at putting a gas fire into our new home - one of the contemporary ones built into the wall. Anyway, we are shocked to find they cost about $5k minimum. But, a search on uk web sites shows they are about a tenth of the cost. So, is there any reason why I can't just buy one from the uk and have it fitted in Oz?

You'll probably find an Aus plumber wouldn't fit it as it won't have an Aus/AS compliance sticker on it.

Have looked at that. It's about $200 to get it approved.

Looks like no impediments then - If the cost differential is as you suggest then you should order one, and then we can go into business importing and undercutting the local offerings?


S

Question is should something go wrong would the house insurance cover it?

Hevs imported a gas stove from the UK a few years back. Had no problems getting it approved and fitted. Gas stove, gas fire, much of a muchness She also saved a fortune so I'd go for it.

I think it's $220+ GST for the Australian Gas Association application fee, then they issue an authority to test, then you need to pay an independent and authorized tester - and since you can usually only have the appliance tested after it's actually installed, the testing and installing company are one and the same. Confused? Me too.

http://www.aga.asn.au/fees_ica
http://www.aga.asn.au/guidelines4

If you haven't already done so, you might to check any applicable import tax as well.