Who Installs Gas Lines?

A licensed plumber can install gas lines and add gas valves. In most states, a plumber should have licensing and insurance in accordance with local laws. When considering a plumber to hire, be sure to get at least three quotes before you decide.

How to Find a Gas Line Plumber

It's always nice to know a plumber you can trust. One of the best ways to find a plumber to install a gas line is to contact your local gas company. They will likely be able to connect you with a skilled and licensed plumber who has experience with gas line work. They may also have their own in-house contractors who can help. 

Additionally, there are other ways to get in touch with a plumber to help you with your gas lines: 

• Angi: Angi has a database of gas plumbers in your area, complete with reviews to help you decide on the right pro for your job. 

• Friends and family: Word of mouth can be an excellent way to narrow your plumber search and get feedback from people you trust. 

Before Hiring a Gas Line Plumber

Before deciding on hiring a plumber to install your gas lines, you should consider a few things, especially since you want the job done safely the first time. 

Plan Your Gas Line Installation Project for Accurate Quotes

Before contacting any potential contractors, educate yourself on installing gas lines. Learn about the average costs associated with gas line installation and the materials needed. Then, compare what you learned to the job you'd like done. 

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Do you have an idea of how long a line you'll need? If not, grab your measuring tape.

• Where will the line run? Will it be inside and outside the home, or is this specifically for an outdoor appliance like a fire pit?

• Will there need to be subcontractors involved, specifically excavators? If digging is necessary, how much?

• Are you converting from propane to natural gas?

The better you understand the project, the better questions you can pose to potential gas plumbers to help you choose the right pro for your job. Now, you're ready to reach out for quotes from contractors. At a minimum, reach out to three companies to request estimates. You'd be surprised by the difference in perspectives between pros. Listen to each contractor and decide based on what you believe is the right approach rather than who gives you the lowest quote. 

Check Your Gas Plumber's Qualifications and References

Different plumbers possess different certifications based on their experience and training. Each stage of plumbing requires ongoing education and testing. The plumbers you evaluate will be able to provide you with information on these certifications. 

In addition to trade qualifications, plumbers, like all contractors, must possess bonding, licensing, and insurance to operate. 

Bonding

Always ask if your contractor is bonded. Working with a bonded contractor protects you financially from unfinished or poorly finished work. The contractor will have purchased a surety bond to cover this risk.

Insurance

It is crucial for the company your contractor works for to be insured. If not insured, you could be liable for damages or injuries on your property during the work.

Licensing

Contractors need to be licensed by state and local authorities. Their license is often contingent on being bonded and insured. Want to make sure the contractor you're considering is licensed? Check out this handy tool to check for state-licensed contractors.

References

A qualified plumber will be eager to provide you with references that can support the promises they make as contractors. A plumber who can't supply references or seems evasive upon your request could be hiding something. Failure to provide copies of licenses and insurance should also be considered a red flag. 

Most importantly, it’s best to hire a plumber who can show they’ve had previous experience working on gas lines since working with gas can be dangerous. If they’ve never done it, you should pass. 

Hiring Your Gas Line Plumber

Your prep work will help you find a great gas plumber to install your propane or natural gas line. These homeowner-to-contractor transactions happen all of the time. Both parties benefit the most from your satisfaction, but this doesn't mean that disagreements can't arise.

Get a Contract and Arrange Payments With Your Gas Plumber

Before any work starts, you and your contractor should agree on the task and project completion expectations. You'll also want to discuss payment expectations, including the total cost, down payment amount, payment schedule, and form of payment. 

Suppose you're wondering what form of payment is best for paying contractors. The answer? It varies. Some companies offer discounts based on the form of payment you use. It may save you a percentage of the total cost to pay with cash. However, credit cards and checks offer the most benefit from a consumer protection standpoint. If the agreement falls apart, you may have to settle it directly with the contractor if you use a debit card. Keep all of your receipts, too.

Finally, get it all in writing. Both you and the contractor should sign a contract that you have reviewed thoroughly. A standard contract should improve details such as:

• Contact information

• Description of service and scope of work

• Compliance and insurance requirements

• Payment terms

• Lien waiver clause

• Indemnification

• Warranties

• Detail the steps you’ll take if there is a dispute

Keep Records of Your Gas Line Installation Project

Records help protect you if there is a dispute in the agreed-upon timeline or project. Document any problems that occur and use your records to connect with the contractor and share your concerns.

As the work commences, track time and milestones. Keep a receipt of all payments, including a copy of checks. In the memo section of the check, fill in what that particular payment went toward.

Know Your Rights and Avoid Plumbing Scams

Your rights depend on whether the contractor you hired is licensed. If not, you lack much recourse. Licensed contractors have an obligation and incentive to make sure they complete the job. If negotiation fails, you can file complaints with the municipalities where the contractor is licensed. 

Be aware of potential signs of a scam:

• High down payment

• Insistence on cash payment

• Evasive behavior on questions about qualifications or if they have had a business under a different name

After Your Gas Plumber Has Finished

Always do a final walkthrough of the work with your contractor. Review the job and ensure that it is complete and the area is clean. 

Finally, a good review is vital to your contractor's future business. They will appreciate a positive review and want to make sure you are satisfied with the job to get that good review. Your contractor may also ask you to be a reference for future customers.