Call a qualified, licensed plumber to install a gas line
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.
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 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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
Adding a gas line costs between $120 to $1,350, though most homeowners spend between $260 and $820, on average. This comes out to between $15 and $25 per linear foot, including labor fees and materials. Contractors typically charge $45 to $200 per hour for this type of work.
We cannot stress this point enough—installing a gas line yourself is not safe nor recommended. It’s always best to hire a pro for this job. Given the risks associated with improperly installed gas lines (like carbon monoxide poisoning and severe structural damage), running a gas line is a job you should always leave to a qualified plumber.
Having a gas line installed in your home, whether you’re just moving in or you’ve been living in your forever home for a while, can bring several benefits. Natural gas is an affordable option over electricity, meaning your wallet might see an overall savings over time.
The biggest positive of installing a gas line is that gas-powered appliances will still work during a power outage, meaning that your gas fireplace will keep your home warm and toasty during a blackout.
Gas lines are built for longevity, so they can last up to 50 years when installed properly. However, normal wear and tear are possible, especially in moderate climates. Having a plumber or local gas company inspect your gas lines every year is best to ensure there are no hidden leaks or other dangerous problems.
It’s no secret that natural gas differs from propane, but you’re in luck—licensed plumbers can also install propane gas lines. When you speak to a gas plumber near you, be sure you specify that your project will be for propane gas, not natural gas. Propane lines are slightly different than natural gas lines, so clear communication is key to ensure that your project is completed without a hitch.
