Gas / electricity safety

All gas distribution companies (National Grid, Scotia Gas Networks, Northern Gas Networks and West & Wales Utilities) are responsible for dealing with gas leaks and emergencies in their respective networks. If you smell gas or if you suspect that there has been an escape of other fumes such as Carbon Monoxide (CO), call the free 24 hour national emergency number on 0800 111 999.

Engineers of the gas distribution company owning the network in your area, will attend any gas leak free of charge. If the leak is inside your home, they may make it safe by turning off the supply. However, if it is safe to do so they will maintain the supply for heating and cooking appliances. If the engineer can fix the appliance or pipe work that is leaking within 30 minutes, and at a cost of no more than £4.65, they will do so. If not, they will isolate the appliance (to prevent unsafe use) and turn the gas back on, if it is safe to do so. The engineer will leave behind information about who to contact to have the appliance repaired. If the disruption of the supply to you property has been caused by the distribution company, you will be entitled to compensation, if you are without gas for more than 24 hours. You should contact your supplier if this applies to you.

What you should do if you suspect a leak:

• OPEN DOORS AND WINDOWS
• MAKE SURE THAT THE GAS SUPPLY TO AN APPLIANCE HAS NOT BEEN LEFT ON OR THAT THE PILOT LIGHT HAS NOT GONE OUT
• TURN THE SUPPLY OFF AT THE METER
• DO NOT USE MATCHES OR NAKED FLAMES
• DO NOT SMOKE
• DO NOT TURN ANY ELECTRICAL SWITCHES ON OR OFF - INCLUDING LIGHT SWITCHES AND DOORBELLS

Safety and Supply Interruptions

Free Services

Your personal safety is important. To find out if you are eligible to receive a free gas safety check along with many other free services, see our Free Services information.

Repairing gas appliances and pipes in your home

Repairs to gas equipment must be carried out by CORGI registered gas installers. If you do not have a service contract or know a suitable engineer, contact the CORGI helpline on 01256 372 200 for details of registered gas installers in your area who do repair work. You may want to get more than one quote for the cost of the repairs. Before you let any engineer into your home, ask to see their CORGI identification to ensure that they are genuine, qualified engineers competent to work on your specific appliance.