If You Smell Gas, Stop What You’re Doing
A gas smell inside your home is not something to investigate yourself. The priority is to get everyone out safely and call for help before doing anything else.
Natural gas is odourless on its own, but suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it that distinctive rotten egg smell. If you notice it, trust your nose and act immediately.
The First Steps to Take During a Gas Emergency
Do not turn any lights, switches, or appliances on or off. Electrical sparks can ignite gas that has built up in an enclosed space.
Leave all doors open as you exit to help disperse the gas. Once everyone is outside and away from the building, call the emergency gas line for your area. Queensland gas network emergency contacts are available around the clock, so you can reach someone any time of day or night.
Do not re-enter the property until a qualified technician has confirmed it is safe. This applies even if the smell seems to have faded.
What Not to Do When You Suspect a Gas Leak
Avoid using your mobile phone inside the house. Step outside first, then make your calls.
Do not light matches, candles, or cigarettes anywhere near the property. Even a small flame can cause ignition if gas has accumulated.
Do not attempt to locate the leak yourself or turn off appliances at the wall. Leave that to a licensed professional once the area has been assessed.
How to Shut Off the Gas Supply Safely
If you know where your gas meter is and can reach it safely from outside, turning off the supply at the meter is a sensible step. The shut-off valve is usually located near the meter box.
Turn the valve so it sits perpendicular to the pipe. That position means the gas is off. If you are unsure or the meter is inside the building, leave it and let the emergency responders handle it.
When to Call 000 Versus a Plumber
Call 000 if you can smell strong gas, if someone feels unwell, or if there is any sign of fire. Emergency services and the gas network will respond first to make the situation safe.
Once the immediate danger has passed and the gas has been turned off, you will need a licensed gas fitter to inspect the system, find the source of the leak, and carry out repairs before the gas can be turned back on.
A plumber cannot attend while an active gas emergency is in progress. The sequence matters: emergency services first, then your plumber.
Common Causes of Gas Leaks in Homes
Faulty or ageing appliance connections are one of the most common causes. Hot water systems, cooktops, and heaters all have gas fittings that can deteriorate over time.
Damaged flexible hoses behind appliances are another frequent culprit. These hoses have a limited lifespan and can crack or corrode without any visible warning signs.
External factors such as ground movement, tree roots, or accidental damage during digging can also affect underground gas lines. If you have had any recent work done in your yard and then notice a gas smell, mention that to the technician.
Gas Leaks Are Different From Other Household Leaks
A leaking tap or burst pipe is a serious problem, but water leaks give you a little more time to respond. Gas does not. Even a slow leak can build up to dangerous concentrations in an enclosed room within minutes.
Gas leaks also carry the risk of carbon monoxide exposure if combustion is incomplete. Symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness indoors should be taken seriously, especially if they ease when you go outside.
After the Emergency: Getting Your Gas System Checked
Once the gas network has cleared the property, a licensed gas fitter needs to inspect the system before anything is reconnected. This is not optional. Gas suppliers will not restore supply until a qualified tradesperson has signed off on the repair.
A thorough inspection will identify not just the original fault but any other fittings or connections that may be close to failing. Catching those early avoids a repeat situation.
If your appliances are old or your gas system has not been serviced in several years, this is a good opportunity to have everything assessed properly.
Call Us the Moment the Emergency Is Cleared
Once emergency services have made your home safe, our team can come out promptly to inspect your gas system, carry out repairs, and get your supply restored. We work across Ipswich and the surrounding suburbs.
Whether you need Redbank Plains plumbers or anywhere else across the Ipswich region, call us on (07) 4515 0062 or send us a message through our job request form and we will get back to you quickly.
