What Should I Do If I Suspect a Gas Line Leak in My Home?

If you’ve ever walked into your home and caught the faint smell of rotten eggs or sulfur, your heart probably skipped a beat — and for good reason. That smell could mean there’s a gas line leak, a serious safety hazard that requires immediate attention. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) can make all the difference in keeping your family and home safe.

At Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we’ve seen how dangerous gas leaks can be. That’s why we’re here to walk you through exactly what steps to take if you ever suspect one — and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Step 1: Recognize the Warning Signs of a Gas Leak

Gas leaks don’t always make themselves obvious, but there are clear indicators you should never ignore. Common signs include:

• Smell: The odor of rotten eggs or sulfur is the most noticeable warning sign. Utility companies add this smell to natural gas (which is normally odorless) to help homeowners detect leaks.
• Sound: Hissing or whistling sounds near a gas line, stove, furnace, or water heater may indicate escaping gas.
• Sight: Dead grass, discolored plants, or bubbling water near your gas line outside can suggest a leak underground.
• Health Symptoms: Dizziness, nausea, headaches, fatigue, or difficulty breathing could mean gas exposure. If these symptoms appear suddenly when you’re at home but disappear when you leave, that’s a red flag.

The moment you suspect a gas leak — don’t try to confirm it yourself. Treat every suspicion seriously.

Step 2: Leave the House Immediately

If you think there’s a gas leak, your number-one priority is to get everyone out safely.
Do not:

• Turn on or off any electrical devices (even light switches).
• Use your cell phone or landline inside the home.
• Try to locate the source of the leak yourself.
• Start your car if it’s parked in or near the home.

These actions can create a spark, igniting the gas. Instead, gather your family, pets, and leave the property right away. Once you’re safely outside and a good distance from the home, call 911 or your gas company’s emergency line to report the possible leak.

Step 3: Shut Off the Gas Supply (Only If It’s Safe)

If you can safely access your main gas shut-off valve, turn it off to stop more gas from entering your home.
The valve is typically located where the gas line enters your home — often near your gas meter. Use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn so it’s perpendicular to the pipe.

Only do this if you can do so without putting yourself at risk. If you’re unsure, skip this step and wait for emergency personnel or a licensed professional from Golden Rule to handle it.

Step 4: Contact a Professional for Inspection and Repairs

Once emergency responders have confirmed it’s safe to return, it’s critical to have your gas lines professionally inspected and repaired. Gas systems are complex, and even a small mistake could lead to another leak.

That’s where our team at Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical comes in. Our certified technicians are trained to:

• Locate the source of the leak using advanced detection tools.
• Repair or replace damaged gas lines.
• Test your system to ensure it’s completely sealed and safe.
• Check your appliances for proper connections and ventilation.

We handle gas line repair in Des Moines, Grimes, and throughout Central Iowa, ensuring your home stays safe, efficient, and up to code.

If you need immediate help, call us anytime at 515-393-4951 or visit Golden Rule PHC’s Gas Line Services for more information.

Step 5: Prevent Future Gas Leaks

Gas leaks can happen for many reasons — corrosion, improper installation, appliance malfunctions, or even shifting soil. Regular maintenance and awareness can help you prevent future leaks.

Here’s how to protect your home:

• Schedule annual inspections of your gas lines and appliances.
• Install a natural gas detector to alert you to leaks early.
• Replace old or corroded pipes before they fail.
• Avoid DIY gas work — only licensed professionals should install or repair gas lines.
• Know where your gas shut-off valve is and how to use it.

At Golden Rule, we emphasize preventive maintenance because small steps now can prevent dangerous and expensive problems later.

Why Choose Golden Rule for Gas Line Repairs?

When it comes to something as serious as a gas leak, experience and reliability matter. At Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, our mission is simple: “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Here’s why Central Iowa homeowners trust us:

• Licensed and insured gas line experts.
• Emergency service for urgent situations.
• Upfront pricing — no surprises, no hidden fees.
• Safety-first approach on every job.

Hundreds of five-star reviews from homeowners who rely on us year after year.

Whether you need a quick repair, a full gas line replacement, or just peace of mind through a safety inspection, we’re here to help.

Protect Your Home and Family Today

A suspected gas leak isn’t something to take lightly. Acting quickly can prevent serious harm and property damage. Remember:

• Get out immediately.
• Call for help.
• Trust the professionals to fix it right.

When it comes to gas line safety, Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical has your back.