Gas Line Leaks

Natural gas has an added rotten-egg smell so leaks can be noticed. A gas leak is a fire and explosion hazard, so the first call is to your gas utility or 911—not a plumber. Once the utility has made the area safe, a licensed plumber can repair the line.

Call: 1 (800) 555-0199

Warning signs

A rotten-egg or sulfur smell
A hissing sound near a gas line or appliance
Dead plants over a buried gas line
Bubbles in standing water near a line

What to do right now

Leave the building immediately and keep others out
Do not flip light switches, use phones, or start cars near the leak
From a safe distance, call your gas utility's emergency line or 911
Do not go back inside until the utility says it's safe

What the plumber will do

After the utility shuts off and checks the gas, a licensed plumber can locate the leak, repair or replace the line or fitting, pressure-test the system and arrange for service to be restored.

What affects the cost

Cost depends on where the leak is, how much line needs replacing, permit and inspection requirements, and access. Pricing is set by the independent provider—ask for the trip charge and an estimate before work begins.

Safety first

Smell gas? Leave the building now and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don't flip switches.
Water near outlets or the electrical panel? Stay out of the water and shut off power only if you can do it safely.
Know your main water shutoff before you need it—it stops most plumbing emergencies in seconds.

Need an emergency plumber?

Call free, 24 hours a day. We'll connect you with an available local provider.