If you smell gas in your home, leave the property immediately, do not use any electrical switches or open flames, and call 000 from a safe distance. Once everyone is safe, call a licensed gas fitter to locate and repair the leak before returning inside.
Gas leaks are a serious safety hazard in any home. Older properties across South Sydney with ageing gas fittings, corroded connections, and original bayonet points are particularly at risk. At Steve Bennett Plumbing, we hold full gas fitting and gas leak detection licences and respond to gas emergencies across St George and Sutherland Shire. This guide covers what to do immediately, what causes gas leaks, how a gas fitter finds and fixes them, and how to prevent leaks from happening.
What to Do Immediately If You Smell Gas
If you smell gas, your priority is safety. Follow these steps in order:
Evacuate Everyone From the Property
Get everyone out of the house, including children, elderly family members, and pets. Do not stop to collect belongings. Move to a safe distance from the property, at least 15 to 20 metres away. If you are in an apartment building, alert your neighbours.
Do Not Use Electrical Switches or Open Flames
Do not turn lights on or off, do not use power points, do not light matches or lighters, do not use your mobile phone inside the house, and do not start your car in an attached garage. Any spark can ignite leaked gas.
Ventilate If You Can Do So Safely
If you are near a window or door on your way out, open it to allow the gas to disperse. Do not go back inside specifically to open windows. Ventilation helps but evacuation comes first.
Turn Off the Gas at the Meter If Accessible
If you can safely reach the gas meter without re-entering the house, turn the gas handle to the off position (perpendicular to the pipe). This stops the flow of gas to the entire property. Do not attempt this if the meter is inside the house or if you feel unwell.
Call 000 From a Safe Location
Once you are safely outside, call 000 if you believe the leak is major or poses an immediate danger to life or property. The fire brigade will respond and make the area safe. For urgent plumbing and gas fitting needs after the area is secured, call our emergency plumbing service.
Call Your Gas Distributor
After calling 000, contact your local gas distributor. In the St George and Sutherland Shire area, this is typically Jemena (call 131 909). The distributor is responsible for the gas network up to and including your meter. They can isolate the supply at the street if needed.
Call a Licensed Gas Fitter
For leaks inside your property (downstream of the meter), you need a licensed gas fitter to locate and repair the fault. Under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017, all gas fitting work in NSW must be carried out by a licensed professional. Do not attempt to repair gas fittings yourself. Book an emergency gas leak inspection as soon as the immediate danger has been managed.
How to Tell If You Have a Gas Leak
Natural gas is odourless in its raw form. Gas suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan that gives it a distinctive rotten egg or sulphur smell. If you notice any of the following signs, you may have a gas leak:
The Smell of Rotten Eggs or Sulphur
This is the most obvious sign. The smell is sharp and distinctive, different from a sewer or drain odour. It is strongest near the source of the leak. If you smell it near a gas appliance, a pipe connection, or the gas meter, treat it as a leak until proven otherwise.
A Hissing or Whistling Sound
A hissing sound near a gas pipe, fitting, or appliance connection indicates gas escaping under pressure. Even a faint hiss should be investigated. Do not assume it is normal.
Dead or Dying Indoor Plants
Gas displaces oxygen. Indoor plants near a leak may wilt or die without an obvious cause.
Physical Symptoms in Household Members
Prolonged exposure to a gas leak can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. If multiple household members experience these symptoms at the same time, especially when indoors, a gas leak should be considered. Leave the property immediately.
Higher Than Expected Gas Bills
A slow, persistent leak that is too small to smell can still register on your gas meter. If your gas bill has increased without a change in usage habits, a hidden leak may be the cause.
Bubbles on Pipe Connections
If you suspect a specific fitting, you can apply soapy water (a mix of dishwashing liquid and water) to the outside of the connection. Bubbles forming on the surface confirm that gas is escaping through that joint. Only perform this test in an area well-ventilated and with no ignition sources nearby.
What Causes Gas Leaks in Homes?
Gas leaks develop when a seal, connection, or component in the gas system fails. The following causes account for the majority of residential gas leaks:
Corroded or Aged Gas Pipe Connections
Gas pipes and fittings corrode over time, especially in older homes with original galvanised or brass connections. Corrosion weakens joints, and the constant vibration from gas pressure and thermal expansion eventually causes a breach. Homes built before the 1980s are most affected.
Faulty or Worn Bayonet Fittings
Bayonet fittings are the quick-connect points used for portable gas heaters and BBQ connections in many Australian homes. The rubber seals inside these fittings perish over time, allowing gas to escape when an appliance is connected or even when the fitting is capped. This is one of the most common gas leak sources in residential properties.
Loose or Damaged Appliance Connections
Gas cooktops, ovens, hot water systems, and heaters all connect to the gas supply through threaded or compression fittings. These connections can loosen from vibration, thermal cycling, or simply ageing. A loose connection on a gas cooktop is one of the most frequent callouts we attend. According to the Australian Government energy guide, gas hot water systems are among the most common gas-connected appliances in Australian homes.
Damaged Flexible Gas Hoses
Flexible hoses connect many gas appliances to the fixed pipework. These hoses deteriorate over time, developing cracks, kinks, or corrosion at the crimp points. Australian Standards recommend replacing flexible gas hoses every 10 years, but many homeowners are unaware of this requirement.
Gas Meter or Regulator Faults
The gas meter and pressure regulator sit between the street supply and your property. While the gas distributor is responsible for maintaining the meter, faults can develop that cause gas to escape at the meter connection or the regulator vent.
Construction or Renovation Damage
Renovations, landscaping, and even routine gardening can accidentally damage buried gas lines or exposed pipe runs. A shovel nick on a buried gas pipe may not leak immediately, but can develop into a fault over time.
More: Why Do I Have No Hot Water? Common Causes and What to Do
Gas Leak vs Sewer Smell: How to Tell the Difference
Homeowners sometimes confuse gas leaks with sewer gas or drain odours. Knowing the difference prevents false alarms and ensures the right response:
Gas Leak Smell
A gas leak smells like rotten eggs or sulphur. The odour is sharp, chemical, and distinctive. It is strongest near gas appliances, pipe connections, or the gas meter. It does not improve when you run water or flush drains.
Sewer or Drain Smell
A sewer smell is organic, musty, and sometimes damp. It is strongest near floor drains, shower drains, or sink plugholes. It often improves temporarily when you run water (which refills the P-trap seal). Sewer smells are a plumbing issue, not a gas emergency.
When in Doubt
If you are unsure whether you are smelling gas or sewer, treat it as gas. Evacuate, ventilate, and call for professional assessment. It is always better to respond to a false alarm than to ignore a real leak.
Why Gas Safety Matters in South Sydney’s Older Homes
The housing stock across St George and Sutherland Shire creates specific gas safety risks:
Original Gas Fittings in Post-War Homes
Homes across Hurstville, Kogarah, and Peakhurst built in the 1950s to 1970s often have original gas pipe runs and fittings that are now 50 to 70 years old. These fittings were not designed to last this long. Threaded joints corrode, seals perish, and connections loosen over decades of thermal cycling.
Ageing Gas Hot Water Systems
Mortdale, Oatley, and Carlton have a high proportion of gas storage hot water systems that are 10 to 15 years old. Gas valve seals, pilot light assemblies, and thermocouple connections all deteriorate with age. A slow gas leak from an ageing hot water system is one of the most common faults we find during routine inspections.
Coastal Corrosion on Outdoor Gas Fittings
Cronulla, Caringbah, and Sans Souci face salt-heavy air that accelerates corrosion on outdoor gas meter connections, BBQ bayonet fittings, and exposed gas pipe runs. Coastal homes need more frequent gas safety inspections than inland properties.
Portable Heater Bayonet Points
Many older homes across Miranda, Sylvania, and Kirrawee have bayonet gas points installed in living rooms and bedrooms for portable gas heaters. These fittings are rarely serviced, and the rubber seals inside degrade over time. A perished bayonet seal can leak even when the fitting is capped, and no heater is connected.
Properties With Multiple Gas Appliances
Menai and Engadine have many family homes with gas cooktops, gas ovens, gas hot water systems, gas heaters, and outdoor gas BBQ connections. Each appliance adds another potential leak point to the system. More gas connections mean more maintenance requirements.
How a Licensed Gas Fitter Finds and Fixes a Gas Leak
When you call a licensed gas fitter for a suspected leak, here is what to expect:
Pressure Drop Test
The gas fitter shuts off all gas appliances and connects a pressure gauge to the gas system. The system is pressurised and monitored for a set period. Any drop in pressure confirms a leak exists in the system. This test determines the severity and approximate location of the fault.
Appliance-by-Appliance Isolation
The gas fitter systematically isolates each appliance and section of the gas line, testing pressure at each stage. This narrows the leak to a specific appliance connection, pipe section, or fitting.
Electronic Gas Detection
A portable gas detector measures gas concentration in the air around pipe joints, appliance connections, and fittings. The detector pinpoints the exact location of the leak. Steve Bennett Plumbing uses professional-grade gas leak detection equipment for accurate diagnosis on every callout.
Repair and Compliance Testing
Once the leak is located, the gas fitter repairs or replaces the faulty component. Common repairs include fitting replacement, joint re-sealing, hose replacement, valve replacement, and bayonet seal replacement. After repair, the system is pressure tested again to confirm the leak is sealed. A certificate of compliance is issued for all gas fitting work in NSW as required under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017. You can verify any gas fitter’s licence through Service NSW.
When Appliances Need Replacing
If a gas appliance is leaking due to internal component failure (cracked heat exchanger, failed gas valve, corroded burner), repair may not be safe or cost-effective. The gas fitter will advise on replacement options. A new appliance must be installed by a licensed gas fitter and tested for compliance before use.
After responding to an urgent gas leak inspection for a homeowner in our service area, Steve Bennett Plumbing received this feedback: “Receptionist Susan arranged an urgent inspection for a gas leak in the built-in BBQ. Brendon arrived within two hours, replaced the bayonet and also took time to inspect the shower issue as well as replace an outdoor tap. First-class service all around.” Tom McLoughlin.
That level of responsiveness is what a gas leak demands. You can learn more about our team and our 40-year history of gas fitting services across South Sydney.
How to Prevent Gas Leaks in Your Home
Gas leaks are preventable with regular maintenance and a few simple habits:
Book a Gas Safety Inspection Every 2 Years
Have a licensed gas fitter inspect all gas appliances, connections, hoses, and bayonet fittings every 2 years. The inspection includes a pressure drop test, a visual check of all connections, and verification that appliances are burning correctly. Steve Bennett Plumbing offers scheduled plumbing and gas maintenance visits across our full-service area.
Replace Flexible Gas Hoses Every 10 Years
Check the manufacturer’s date on every flexible gas hose connected to your appliances. If the hose is older than 10 years, replace it. If the hose shows any signs of cracking, kinking, or corrosion at the crimp points, replace it immediately, regardless of age.
Service Gas Hot Water Systems Regularly
Gas hot water systems should be professionally serviced every 3 to 5 years. The gas fitter checks the pilot light assembly, thermocouple, gas valve, burner, and flue for safe operation. A hot water system repair visit can catch gas connection issues before they become leaks.
More: The Complete Guide to Hot Water Heaters for Your Home
Know Where Your Gas Meter Is
Locate your gas meter and learn how to turn it off. The handle should be parallel to the pipe when on and perpendicular when off. In an emergency, being able to shut off the gas quickly can prevent a dangerous situation from escalating.
Install a Gas Detector
A plug-in or battery-powered gas detector provides an early warning for leaks too small to smell. Install one near the gas meter, in the kitchen, and near the hot water system. Test the batteries regularly.
Do Not Ignore Pilot Light Problems
A pilot light that keeps going out is a warning sign. It may indicate a faulty thermocouple, a gas supply issue, or a venting problem. Do not repeatedly relight a pilot that will not stay lit. Call a licensed gas fitter to investigate.
More: 9 Basic Plumbing Maintenance Tips & Signs of Damage
Areas We Service
Steve Bennett Plumbing serves homeowners across the St George and Sutherland Shire regions. Our service area includes Hurstville, Kogarah, Peakhurst, Sans Souci, Mortdale, Oatley, Carlton, Miranda, Cronulla, Engadine, Caringbah, Kirrawee, Sylvania, Menai, and Gymea.
Get a Gas Leak Fixed Fast in Sydney
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, do not wait. Gas leaks are dangerous and get worse with time. A professional pressure test and inspection takes less than an hour and gives you certainty that your home is safe.
Call Steve Bennett Plumbing today on 02 9538 7864 or reach our emergency line on 0413 158 600.
As licensed gas fitters and Master Plumbers with over 40 years of experience across St George and Sutherland Shire, we carry out gas leak detection, repair, and compliance certification on every job. Every callout includes a $0 call-out fee, a fixed-price quote, and same-day service where possible. Our lifetime labour warranty backs every gas fitting repair. We respond to gas emergencies when your safety is at stake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I smell gas in my home?
Leave the property immediately. Do not use electrical switches, light flames, or use your mobile phone indoors. Once safely outside, call 000 if the situation is dangerous, then call your gas distributor (Jemena: 131 909) and a licensed gas fitter to locate and repair the leak.
How do I tell if I smell gas or sewer?
Gas smells like rotten eggs or sulphur. It is sharp and chemical. Sewer smell is organic and musty, and usually comes from drains. The gas smell does not improve when you run water. If you are unsure, treat it as gas, evacuate, and call for professional assessment.
Can a small gas leak be dangerous?
Yes. Even a small gas leak is dangerous. Gas accumulates in enclosed spaces over time. A spark from an electrical switch, appliance, or static discharge can ignite accumulated gas. Small leaks also displace oxygen and can cause health symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
Who do I call for a gas leak in Sydney?
For immediate danger, call 000. For gas network faults (at the meter or street), call your gas distributor Jemena on 131 909. For leaks inside your property (downstream of the meter), call a licensed gas fitter. All gas fitting repairs in NSW must be carried out by a licensed professional.
How often should gas fittings be inspected?
Have a licensed gas fitter inspect all gas appliances, connections, hoses, and bayonet fittings every 2 years. Replace flexible gas hoses every 10 years. Service gas hot water systems every 3 to 5 years. Regular inspections catch small faults before they become leaks.
Can I fix a gas leak myself?
No. All gas fitting work in NSW must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter under the Gas and Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2017. Attempting DIY gas repairs is illegal, dangerous, and can void your home insurance. The only safe actions you can take are turning off the gas at the meter and evacuating the property.
