What to do, in order
Get everyone out
People and pets first. Leave the door open behind you if it is on your way out, but do not stop to open windows.
Move away from the house
Go to the sidewalk, the street or a neighbor's yard, well clear of the building and the gas meter.
Call from a safe distance
Call 911 or SoCalGas once you are away from the smell. Use your phone only after you are outside and clear.
Do not go back in
Wait for the fire department or the gas utility to tell you it is safe, even if the smell seems to fade.
Follow their instructions
The utility may shut off the gas at the meter. Relighting pilots and restoring service should follow their guidance.
Where gas leaks come from
In homes, gas leaks usually start at a connection rather than in the middle of a pipe: the flexible connector behind a stove or dryer, the fitting at a water heater or furnace, or an old valve. In older Anaheim houses, original steel gas piping and fittings may also be decades old.
Natural gas has an odorant added so leaks can be smelled. The rotten-egg smell is the warning, and it should always be taken seriously, even if it is faint or comes and goes.
Who handles what
| Situation | Who to involve |
|---|---|
| Gas smell in or around the house | 911 or SoCalGas, from outside |
| Leak at or before the gas meter | SoCalGas |
| Leak in house piping after the meter | A licensed contractor, once the utility has made it safe |
| Faulty appliance connector or valve | A licensed plumber or appliance technician |
| Gas line extension or new appliance line | A licensed contractor; ask whether a permit is needed and check with the city |
Before the repair starts
- Confirm the contractor's CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov.
- Ask whether the repair needs a permit and inspection.
- Ask how the line will be pressure-tested after the repair.
- Ask who will restore service and relight appliances.
- Get the price and scope in writing before work begins.
Quick facts
- Smell
- Rotten eggs or sulfur
- First move
- Leave the building
- Who to call
- 911 or SoCalGas, from outside
- Do not
- Use switches, flames or appliances
- Water heater
- Gas control is on the unit, but do not stay inside to use it if you smell gas
Common questions
Should I turn off the gas at the meter myself?
If you smell gas, your priority is getting out and calling. The utility or fire department can shut off the meter. Once off, the gas should be turned back on by the utility or a qualified professional.
The smell is faint. Do I still need to leave?
Yes. Treat any gas smell as real until the utility or fire department says otherwise.
Can a plumber fix a gas leak?
Licensed contractors repair gas piping and connectors on the owner's side of the meter, but only after the immediate danger has been handled.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.