Suspect a gas leak? Leave and report it
If you smell gas, hear an unexplained hiss or suspect a leak, move everyone away from the affected area. Do not search for the source or stay inside to call a plumber. From a safe location, call Jemena’s gas emergency line on 131 909 for a suspected network gas leak in its NSW service area. Call 000 if there is immediate danger to people or property, a fire or a medical emergency. Follow the emergency operator’s instructions.
Immediate safety steps
Do not smoke, use flames, operate electrical switches or use a phone in the affected area. Leave appliances and switches as they are. Do not enter an affected building to open windows, collect belongings or turn off the supply. Only isolate gas if the valve is safely accessible without approaching the suspected leak and it is safe to do so. Otherwise leave isolation to emergency responders. Keep others away and do not re-enter until the relevant emergency authority says it is safe.
Reporting a gas leak: what information helps?
Once you are safely away, give the operator the property address, nearest cross street, where you noticed the smell or sound, and whether anyone is unwell or a gas pipe has been damaged. Tell them if the leak appears to affect a street, neighbouring properties or a shared building. Do not return to gather details. For official guidance, see Jemena’s gas safety information.
Warning signs that need attention
A rotten-egg smell, hissing near a gas installation or damage to a gas pipe can indicate a leak. Do not approach the equipment to investigate. An unusually high bill can have several causes; ask your retailer or a licensed gas fitter about unexplained usage, and use the emergency reporting process if you suspect an active leak. Dizziness, headache or breathing difficulty require immediate attention; move to safety and seek emergency medical help.
When to call a licensed gas plumber
Emergency reporting and licensed repair work serve different purposes. Contact emergency services or the network first when there is an active safety concern. After the area has been made safe, a licensed gas fitter can assess the installation, identify repair requirements and arrange testing before appliances or supply are used again. See our gas fitting and leak detection guide for related service information.
How gas leaks are assessed and repaired
The gas fitter selects suitable tests for the installation, which may include calibrated gas detection and pressure testing. A thermal camera does not by itself prove that a concealed pipe is gas-tight. Access, damage and the installation’s condition affect the repair plan and timing. Ask what work is needed, what the quote includes and which compliance documentation applies. Do not attempt a temporary seal, use a flame to test a connection or reconnect an isolated appliance yourself.
Preventing future problems
Have gas appliances serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice about corrosion, damaged connections or recurring faults. Keep ventilation openings clear. Servicing reduces risk but cannot guarantee that a leak will never occur. Confirm attendance fees, after-hours charges and warranty terms when booking with Anton’s Plumbing & Gas.
Frequently asked questions
Should I call a plumber before reporting a gas leak? If you suspect an active leak, get to safety and contact the appropriate emergency service or gas network first. Arrange licensed repairs after emergency clearance.
Should I turn the meter off? Only if it is safely accessible without approaching the suspected leak. Do not delay evacuation or re-enter to isolate it.
Can I use my phone? Make calls from a safe location away from the affected area. Follow the emergency operator’s instructions.