Gas
How to tell if you have a gas leak
You may have a gas leak if you smell a rotten egg or sulphur odour, hear a hissing sound near a gas line or appliance, notice dead patches of plants outside near the line, or see an unexplained rise in your gas bill. If you suspect a leak, turn off the meter, ventilate, avoid flames or switches, leave and call a licensed gas fitter.
A gas leak is a safety issue, not a plumbing project, and it is important to know the warning signs and exactly what to do. Terry is a licensed gas fitter under L10959 and has handled gas work across Western Sydney since 1986. This guide is about recognising a leak and responding safely, not about fixing it yourself, because gas leaks should never be treated as DIY.
The warning signs
- A rotten egg or sulphur smell. Natural gas is odourless, so a scent is added specifically so leaks can be detected. This is the clearest sign.
- A hissing or whistling sound near a gas line, meter or appliance.
- Dead or dying plants, or a patch of yellowed grass, near a buried gas line outside.
- An unexplained jump in your gas bill, which can mean gas is escaping.
- Physical symptoms in people or pets such as headaches, dizziness or nausea that ease when you leave the house.
What to do if you suspect a leak
If you notice any of these signs, act calmly and quickly. The safe response is straightforward, and the how to steps below walk through it in order. The key points are: do not create any spark or flame, get fresh air moving, turn the gas off at the meter if you can do so safely, get everyone out, and call for help from outside.
What NOT to do
- Do not light matches, lighters or a stove.
- Do not turn light switches, power points or appliances on or off, as a switch can spark.
- Do not use your phone inside the house. Call from outside once you are clear.
- Do not try to find or repair the leak yourself.
Why a licensed gas fitter matters
Gas work in New South Wales must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter, and every job requires a compliance certificate issued under AS/NZS 5601. Terry holds licence L10959, which covers gas fitting. He will locate the leak with proper equipment, make the repair safely and provide the compliance certificate so you have documented proof the work is safe and legal.
After hours
A gas leak can happen at any time. Terry offers after hours attendance at a fee for genuine emergencies, though he is not a 24/7 operation. If it is an immediate danger and you cannot reach him, contact your gas network emergency line, which runs around the clock.
If you suspect a leak or want your gas appliances and lines checked, once you are safe call Terry on 0415 274 542.
Frequently asked questions
- What does a gas leak smell like?
- Like rotten eggs or sulphur. Natural gas is naturally odourless, so suppliers add a distinct smell so leaks can be detected. If you notice that smell inside or around your home, treat it as a possible leak and follow the safe response steps.
- What should I do first if I smell gas?
- Do not touch any switches or create a flame. Open doors and windows to ventilate, turn off the gas at the meter if you can do so safely, get everyone out of the house, and call a licensed gas fitter or your gas emergency line from outside.
- Can I fix a gas leak myself?
- No. Gas leaks are a serious safety hazard and must only be repaired by a licensed gas fitter. In New South Wales the work requires a compliance certificate under AS/NZS 5601. Terry, licence L10959, can locate the leak, repair it safely and issue that certificate.
- How do I turn off the gas at the meter?
- Find the gas meter, usually near the front or side of the property, and turn the isolation valve a quarter turn so the handle sits across the pipe rather than along it. Only do this if it is safe to reach. Then ventilate, leave and call for help.
- Are gas leaks dangerous even if small?
- Yes. Even a small leak can build up in an enclosed space and become a fire or explosion risk, and can affect health. Any suspected leak should be treated seriously. Ventilate, leave and call a licensed gas fitter rather than waiting to see if it clears.
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NSW Licence L10959 · 40+ years experience