Smell Gas in the House? What to Do and Who to Call

What are the 4 sources of a gas smell in the house?

The 4 sources of a gas smell in the house are listed below.

• Gas line joints near an appliance leak when the fitting loosens.
• Pilot lights that go out on old appliances release unburned gas.
• Gas connectors behind a range or dryer leak when they crack or loosen.
• Gas meters and service lines leak outside the house.

Is a gas smell in the house an emergency?

Yes, a gas smell in the house is an emergency, because natural gas is flammable and builds up in closed rooms.

What should you do when you smell gas?

The 4 things you should do when you smell gas are listed below.

1. Leave the house and take everyone with you.
2. Do not switch lights, appliances or phones on or off inside.
3. Call the gas utility or 911 from outside.
4. Call a plumber for the repair once the utility makes the area safe.

When should you call a plumber?

You should call a plumber in the 4 situations below.

• The utility finds a leak on the house side of the meter.
• A gas appliance needs a new connector.
• A gas line needs a pressure test.
• A new gas appliance needs a line.

Related plumbing problems and next steps

How much does the plumbing repair cost?

The plumbing repair cost depends on the leak location: gas line repair costs $120–$5,000, according to HomeAdvisor. Gas line repair prices and local plumbers are on the gas line repair in Lancaster, PA page.

What is a related plumbing problem?

A related plumbing problem is water heater pilot light keeps going out, and the water heater pilot light keeps going out guide lists its causes and first steps.

Written and fact-checked by the Lancaster PA Plumbers editorial team using HomeAdvisor, EPA WaterSense and City of Lancaster data. Last updated October 29, 2026.