If you smell gas, leave the house first. Don't flip switches or use a phone inside. Call your gas utility's emergency line or 911 from outside. Call a plumber for the repair once the utility has made it safe.
Common gas line jobs
- New line to a gas range, cooktop or dryer
- Upsizing the supply for a tankless water heater or new furnace
- Lines to a standby generator, grill, fire pit or pool heater
- Moving or capping lines during a kitchen remodel
- Repairing a leak found by the utility or during an inspection
- Pressure testing for a new appliance or a home sale
Sizing matters
A gas line has to deliver enough gas to every appliance running at once. Adding a big load, especially a tankless water heater that can draw several times what a tank heater does, can starve other appliances if the pipe is too small. The plumber will total the appliance ratings, measure the run, and size the pipe accordingly. That's why a quote for a gas line usually needs a look at the house.
Permits and inspection
Gas piping is permitted, inspected work. In the City of Roanoke, trade permits are issued through the city's mechanical, electrical and plumbing permit process; Salem and Roanoke County run their own building offices. The plumber pulls the permit and the line is pressure tested before it's put into service.
Natural gas or propane
Natural gas is available in much of the City of Roanoke, Salem and the more developed parts of Roanoke County. Homes farther out often run on propane. Appliances must be set up for the fuel they use, and propane systems have their own tank and regulator requirements. Tell the plumber which you have when you call.
Check the license
Virginia requires a contractor license for jobs of $1,000 or more, and the state warns homeowners to verify licenses before hiring, per DPOR's home-improvement guidance. Gas fitting is a separate specialty, so ask whether a contractor's license covers it and look it up on the DPOR license lookup.
Common questions
Can I add a gas stove to my kitchen?
Usually, if gas is already in the house. The plumber will check whether the existing line can handle the extra load or needs a new branch.
Do you work on propane?
Yes. Mention propane when you call so the plumber comes prepared.
How long does a new gas line take?
A simple appliance line is often a same-day job, plus the time for inspection. Longer outdoor runs to generators take more planning.