Gas Leak Detection
If you can smell gas or suspect a leak, contact the emergency gas service first and avoid using appliances. Once safe, we can trace the fault, assess the installation and explain the repair route for your home or premises.
What to consider before arranging gas leak detection
The right investigation depends on the building, the fuel-burning appliances and the pipework layout. Recent alterations, difficult access and an older installation can change what we inspect first, how we test safely and which repairs may be practical.
Older or altered pipework
An older installation, extension or appliance change can leave joints and routes difficult to identify. We trace the gas pipework and test the relevant sections so the fault is isolated accurately.
Several gas appliances
A smell or pressure issue may not come from the appliance you use most. We assess the boiler, cooker, fire and other connected appliances to establish where the leak is coming from.
Flues and ventilation
A gas fault can involve the appliance, flue or room ventilation rather than the supply pipe alone. Gas Safe engineers check these parts as part of a safe investigation.
Hidden or difficult-to-reach pipes
Pipework may run behind units, floors or fitted cupboards. We explain what access is needed before disturbing finishes, then discuss practical repair options if the route is concealed.
Recent building work
A new kitchen, extension or decorating work can affect pipe joints and appliance connections. Tell us what has changed so we can focus the inspection on the altered areas as well as the original installation.
What happens after the fault is found
Once we identify the source, we explain whether the issue needs a repair, replacement part or wider remedial work. You receive a written quotation before any chargeable work starts.
How we investigate different gas leak faults
If the leak source is obvious, repairing one appliance or joint may be enough. Hidden pipework needs further testing and may require access work. We explain each route, its likely cost, disruption and safest lasting choice before repairs begin.
Leak at an appliance connection
If the smell is strongest around a boiler, cooker or fire, we test the appliance connection and nearby joints. A local repair usually causes little disruption, provided the appliance remains safe to use.
Leak on accessible pipework
Exposed pipework can often be inspected and tested without opening walls or floors. We repair the affected joint or section, then check the installation before explaining when the appliance can be used again.
Leak in hidden pipework
If testing points to pipework beneath floors or inside walls, we explain the likely access needed before work starts. Rerouting an accessible section may be less disruptive than lifting extensive flooring.
Unclear leak source
When the source isn't obvious, we use systematic testing to narrow down the fault rather than replacing parts without evidence. You receive a clear repair route and cost before any further work begins.
Unsafe or failed installation
If the leak relates to poor pipework, damaged components or an appliance that cannot be made safe, we explain the options for correction or replacement. Gas Safe registration means our engineer can assess the gas work lawfully and record the safety outcome.
What a complete gas leak check covers
Gas can escape from pipework, appliance connections or concealed joints. We use electronic detection and pressure testing to assess the relevant installation, not just the point where the smell is strongest.
We then consider ventilation, flue arrangements and appliance operation. Findings and safety restrictions are recorded clearly, so you know what must happen before the installation can be used again.
Safety comes first
If gas is still suspected, we only begin once the emergency gas service has made the property safe and advised that work can proceed.
Electronic leak detection
Small or concealed leaks can be difficult to locate by smell alone, so we use electronic detection to trace the gas escape accurately.
Pressure testing
A pressure test shows whether the gas installation holds safely and helps identify faults that are not visible at appliances or fittings.
Pipework and joints checked
Leaks may occur beneath floors, behind appliances or at concealed joints, so we assess the accessible installation rather than checking one fitting in isolation.
Appliances and flues assessed
We check appliance operation, ventilation and flue arrangements to identify any related safety issue before gas use resumes.
Clear repair route
You receive a clear record of the findings, any safety restrictions and the work needed to make the installation suitable for use.
Questions to ask before booking gas leak detection
Will gas leak detection confirm whether my appliance is safe to use?
Bring details of the appliance, recent work and where the odour was noticed. We use them to plan safe access, isolate relevant equipment and avoid unnecessary disruption during testing safely.
How do I choose a qualified gas leak detection engineer?
Check the engineer appears on the Gas Safe Register for the work involved. Ask for registration details, clear terms of engagement and confirmation of who carries responsibility for the repairs.
What happens if gas leak detection finds a dangerous fault?
If we find a dangerous fault, we isolate the affected appliance or pipework, explain the risk, and set out remedial work needed before reconnection and safe operation can resume.
How much does gas leak detection cost?
Cost depends on access, testing required and any remedial work identified. We inspect first, then provide a written quotation before repairs start, so the bill reflects agreed work and costs.
Can gas leak detection find a concealed gas leak?
Yes. We can narrow the leak's location without relying on smell, then identify affected pipework behind walls, beneath floors or in service voids, limiting unnecessary opening-up during repairs where possible.