Natural gas leaks are rare but genuinely dangerous, carrying risks of fire, explosion, and carbon-monoxide exposure. Knowing how to recognize a leak and, just as importantly, what to do in the right order can save lives. Treat any suspected leak as an emergency.
How to recognize a leak
The clearest sign is the smell — utilities add a rotten-egg or sulfur odor to otherwise odorless natural gas. Also watch for a hissing or whistling sound near a gas line or appliance, a persistent bubbling in standing water outside, dead or dying vegetation over a buried line, and physical symptoms in people or pets like headaches, dizziness, or nausea that ease when you leave the house.
What to do immediately
If you suspect a leak, do not flip switches, light anything, or use your phone indoors — any spark can ignite gas. Leave the house immediately, taking others and pets with you, and leave the door open. From a safe distance outside, call 911 and your gas utility’s emergency line. Do not go back in until they say it is safe.
Prevention and detection
Have gas appliances and lines inspected periodically by a licensed pro, and install combustion-gas and carbon-monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. When adding or moving a gas appliance — a range, dryer, or water heater — always use a licensed plumber for the gas line, because an improper connection is exactly what causes leaks.
What drives the cost of gas line services
What gas line services costs depends on the job’s complexity, your local labor rates, and whether it is an emergency call. Prices vary a lot by market — for a real number in your area, see our local gas line services pages, where cost and average response time are broken down city by city.
When to call a licensed pro
If you are past the DIY point, hire a licensed, insured plumber rather than risking the repair. Gas Line Services work — including gas line installation, gas leak repair, appliance hookup — should be done by someone credentialed for your state, both for safety and so the job passes inspection. Use our city pages to find local gas line services pros with upfront pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What does a gas leak smell like?
Like rotten eggs or sulfur — an odorant utilities add to natural gas so leaks are detectable. Not everyone smells it equally, so pair it with detectors.
Should I try to find the leak myself?
No. Leave the house, avoid anything that could spark, and call 911 and your gas utility from outside. Locating and repairing the line is a licensed pro’s job.
Can I turn my gas back on after a leak?
Only the utility or a licensed professional should restore service after a leak, once the line is repaired and tested. Never relight it yourself.