Do not do these things
- Do not look for the leak with a flame.
- Do not flip switches, unplug things or use a doorbell.
- Do not make the call from inside the house.
- Do not try to relight a pilot while you can smell gas.
- Do not go back in until you are told it is safe.
Who does what
SoCalGas provides gas service in Buena Park and responds to suspected gas leaks. Their role covers the gas system up to and including the meter. Once the immediate danger has been handled, gas lines on your side of the meter, such as the pipes to the water heater, furnace, stove, dryer or an outdoor fire feature, are repaired by a licensed contractor.
If the gas has been shut off at the meter, ask SoCalGas what is needed before it can be turned back on. Repairs on house piping are often followed by a pressure test, and a permit and inspection may be required. Check with the city.
Common gas line jobs
| Job | What it involves | Questions to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Leak repair on house piping | Finding the leak, replacing the fitting or section, pressure testing | How was the leak found? Will you test the whole system? |
| Appliance connector replacement | Replacing a flexible connector to a stove, dryer or water heater | Is the shutoff valve at the appliance in good shape? |
| New gas line | Running a line for a new appliance, BBQ or tankless water heater | Is the existing line sized for the added load? |
| Line upsizing | Replacing a line to carry more gas | Does the meter need to change? Who coordinates with SoCalGas? |
After the immediate danger is handled
- Follow the utility's instructions.If a technician found a leak on house piping, they may leave the gas off to part or all of the house until it is repaired.
- Hire a licensed contractor.Ask for the CSLB license number and check it at cslb.ca.gov before the work starts.
- Ask about permits.Gas piping work commonly needs a permit and inspection. Ask who pulls it.
- Get the system tested.Ask for a pressure test after the repair and an explanation of the result.
- Restore service.Follow SoCalGas's process to have gas turned back on and pilots relit.
What to ask the contractor
- What is your CSLB license number and classification?
- Where was the leak, and what caused it?
- Will you pressure test the whole system after the repair?
- Does this work need a permit and inspection?
- What is the written price before you begin?
Common questions
- What does natural gas smell like?
- Gas utilities add an odorant that smells like rotten eggs or sulfur so leaks can be noticed. If you smell it, leave and call from outside.
- Should I have a carbon monoxide alarm?
- Homes with gas appliances should have working carbon monoxide alarms. Check the manufacturer's instructions for placement and replacement.
- Can a plumber turn my gas back on?
- If the utility shut off the meter, ask SoCalGas about the process for restoring service. Do not turn a utility-locked meter back on yourself.
General information for Buena Park, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.