If you smell gas, get everyone outside, then call 911 and SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200 from a safe distance. For leak repair after the utility responds, new appliance lines, or replacing old buried gas pipe, call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Riverside.
Smell gas? Read this first
- Leave the house with everyone, including pets. Leave doors open on the way out if it is quick.
- Do not flip switches, unplug anything, light a match or start a car in the garage.
- Once you are well away, call 911 and SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200.
- Stay out until responders say it is safe.
The utility makes the area safe and handles its own pipe and meter. Repairs to the piping on your side of the meter are then done by a qualified plumber.
Your side of the meter
SoCalGas is the natural gas utility in Riverside; Riverside Public Utilities provides water and electricity only. SoCalGas says customers are responsible for maintaining all gas lines on their side of the meter, from the meter to the appliances, and recommends having that piping checked for corrosion on metal pipe and for leaks. Some homes do not use utility gas at all and run on propane or are all-electric; the company on your gas bill is the one to call.
Work a plumber can do
- Pressure testing and leak repair on house gas piping
- New lines for a range, dryer, water heater, fireplace, pool heater or outdoor kitchen
- Replacing old flexible connectors and corroded steel pipe
- Buried line replacement to a detached garage, barbecue or heater
- Earthquake-related checks, such as making sure appliance connections can flex and water heaters are strapped, which California requires
Digging and buried gas pipe
Call 811 at least two working days before excavating so utility lines are marked. SoCalGas does not mark customer-owned gas lines, so buried pipe running from the meter to a pool heater or outbuilding needs a private locator. Many plumbers can trace their own work or bring in a locating service.
Permits and inspection
New or altered gas piping generally needs a plumbing permit from City of Riverside Building & Safety, which you can reach at the Permit Counter at (951) 826-5800 or through the online Public Permit Portal. The system is pressure tested before the gas is turned back on.
Cost factors
Length of the run, pipe size for the appliance load, indoor versus buried routing, access through walls or attic, permit and test requirements, and whether the existing piping needs upgrading all shape the price.
Gas Line Services questions from Riverside homeowners
Should I call a plumber first if I smell gas?
Who is responsible for the gas line from the meter to my appliances?
Will SoCalGas mark the gas line to my pool heater before I dig?
Do I need a permit to add a gas line for a new range?
Related plumbing services in Riverside
Helpful guides
Gas Line Services in nearby cities and towns
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
Orange County
Sources
- SoCalGas: Emergency information (gas leak line 1-800-427-2200)
- SoCalGas pipeline safety bill insert: customers maintain gas lines on their side of the meter
- SoCalGas safety bill insert: Call 811 before you dig (SoCalGas does not mark customer-owned gas lines)
- City of Riverside Building & Safety: Permits
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