Gas safety
What are we doing to keep you safe?
We carry out an annual gas safety check in your home every 12 months, this confirms that the gas pipes and appliances in your home are operating safely. We will work with you to pick an appointment at a time that suits you. Â
Not only is your safety our top priority, but weâre also required by law to make sure that your home is safe and well-maintained. Â
During the check, we look at your entire heating system and make sure itâs safe. That means checking your gas appliances, pipework and flues, test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. The inspection usually takes around 45 minutes. Weâll then provide you with a copy of your gas safety certificate around 2 weeks later via post.
What happens if there’s a fault?
If we canât complete the repair at our first visit, weâll contact you within 24 hours to schedule a follow-up appointment. This usually happens if we need to order parts. If your central heating isnât working and a repair canât be actioned immediately, weâll offer you temporary electric heaters.Â
When installed correctly, gas appliances are perfectly safe in the home. However, if your appliances are old, have been poorly fitted or have not been serviced correctly then it increases the chances of a gas leak occurring. Gas leaks can be very dangerous, causing health problems and accidents in the home. Additionally, the release of gas into the air is bad for the environment.
While we will work with you to ensure that your home is kept gas safe, itâs important to know what the signs and symptoms of a gas leak are, and what to do if thereâs an emergency.
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Gas safety at home
Smell
The first thing youâd notice in the event of a gas leak would be a foul smell in the air which is similar to rotten eggs. This is a very distinctive smell, so if you smell this in your home you should call 0800 111 999 immediately for help and advice.
Hissing sound
Another symptom of a gas leak is a hissing or whistling sound in the home or near your gas lines. Generally, the louder the noise, the more substantial the leak is, so itâs always best to call a professional straight away if youâre worried.
White cloud near the gas line
A white cloud or unusual-looking mist around your house could be another sign of a gas leak or damaged gas pipe. If you notice this, then call your gas company straight away and they will be able to help.
Bubbles in water
If you have a gas leak, youâll most likely find bubbles forming in wet areas around your home or in puddles outside.
A good way to check whether you have a gas leak is to perform the âbubbles testâ with soapy water. Simply mix some dish soap with water, and spray or put the solution in the area you think is leaking. If you start to see bubbles showing up, then itâs an indication that you might have a gas leak.
Dead houseplants
Unfortunately, the presence of gas can prevent plants from being able to breathe properly and can result in them dying. If you have house plants around your home and you still notice them wilting, then this could be a sign of a gas leak. Additionally, check the areas outside your property for patches of yellow grass or dying flowers, as this might be a sign of a leak coming from pipes underground.
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The six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a gas which can make you seriously ill if you breathe it in. Itâs colourless and odourless meaning itâs quite hard to tell if itâs around you. It can be produced by your gas appliances if theyâre not installed properly, are faulty or poorly maintained. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Breathlessness
- Collapsing
- Loss of consciousness
If you start feeling unwell and believe youâve been exposed to carbon monoxide, then contact your GP immediately or go to hospital to be checked over.
What to do if a gas leak is suspected?
Itâs important not to smoke or use electrical appliance if a leak is suspected. You can open windows if itâs safe to do so, and leave the area immediately.
In case of an emergencyâŚ
If you can smell gas, or suspect a gas leak, always call National Grid on 0800 111 999 (anytime day or night).
