Immediate Action: Do This Now
- Leave the building now and take everyone with you, including pets.
- Do not switch lights, appliances, or anything electrical on or off, and do not use a lighter or match. Do not start a car in an attached garage.
- From a safe distance outside, call Atmos Energy’s emergency line or 911.
- Leave the door open behind you if it is safe to do so, and do not go back in until the utility or fire department says it is safe.
- Only after the utility has made it safe: request a licensed plumber for gas line repair.
What Causes a Gas Leak?
Natural gas has an odorant added so leaks can be noticed.
Loose or failed appliance connection
Flexible connectors to stoves, dryers, and water heaters can loosen or crack.
Damaged gas line
Corrosion, digging, or remodeling damage.
Pilot or burner issues
A pilot that went out on an older appliance can release gas.
Outdoor leaks
Underground line damage near the meter.
How Serious Is a Gas Leak?
A suspected gas leak is always an emergency. Gas can ignite from a spark, and high concentrations are dangerous to breathe. The utility makes the situation safe first; a plumber repairs the piping afterward.
What Should You Do Before the Plumber Arrives?
- Wait outside at a safe distance for the utility or fire department.
- Tell responders which appliance or area the smell seemed strongest near.
- Do not restore gas or relight pilots yourself after the utility has shut it off.
Can It Be Repaired or Does It Need Replacement?
After the utility locates and shuts off the leak, a licensed plumber repairs or replaces the failed connector or section of pipe, pressure-tests the system, and coordinates with the utility to restore service. Gas work generally requires a permit. See gas line repair.
How Much Can Emergency Gas Line Repair Cost?
Emergency and after-hours visits typically cost more than scheduled work, and the total depends on what failed and how hard it is to reach. We do not publish a price for this specific repair. See emergency plumber cost for published ranges with linked sources, and ask before work starts whether there is a dispatch or after-hours fee and whether it is credited toward the repair.
Related Problems
FAQs
Should a plumber or the gas company come first?
The gas company (or 911) first, to make it safe. A plumber does the repair after that.
Is a faint smell near the water heater normal?
No. Treat any gas odor as a possible leak and leave.
Shut off the water first if you can, then request emergency help.