What usually causes it
- Aging or corroded gas piping and fittings
- A fitting disturbed during renovation or appliance work
- Damage from settling, digging or construction
- A failing appliance connector or valve
What you can safely check
- There is no safe 'check it yourself' for a suspected gas leak — if you smell gas, leave and call from outside
- If there is no smell but you are concerned about an aging line, note its location and condition for a professional evaluation
- Keep the area around gas appliances and meters accessible, and never store flammables against a gas appliance
When to call a plumber
After the utility has cleared an emergency, gas piping repairs and appliance reconnections must be done by a properly qualified professional working to code, with pressure testing before anything goes back into service. If you are planning a renovation that moves a gas appliance — a stove, a dryer, a water heater — involve a plumber at the planning stage, not after the walls are open.
The service that usually handles this: General Plumbing Repair. We handle gas line concerns calls across White Plains and Westchester County — including White Plains, Scarsdale and Yonkers.
Questions about gas line concerns
What does a gas leak smell like?
Natural gas is odorized to smell like rotten eggs or sulfur specifically so leaks are noticeable. Some people describe it as a garlic-like smell. If you notice it strongly, do not investigate — leave and call from outside.
Can I turn my gas back on myself after the utility shut it off?
No. Restoration involves leak testing of the system and should be handled by the utility and a qualified professional. Appliances also need their pilots and controls checked properly on relight.