You know that sharp, sulphur-like odour? It’s not “just the stove.” It’s an early warning that gas is leaking—and in Bayside’s older homes, corroded fittings and ageing copper lines make leaks more common than most realise.
If you smell gas, don’t panic—act methodically and safely.
Step 1: Turn the Gas Off at the Meter
Locate your gas isolation valve, usually near the front meter or along the side fence. Turn it a quarter-turn so the handle is perpendicular to the pipe—this stops the supply immediately.
If you can’t find it, step outside and call 000 before re-entering the property.
Read the safety guide from Energy Safe Victoria for valve locations and emergency procedures.
Step 2: No Flames, No Switches
Gas ignites from the smallest spark—so:
Don’t light matches, candles, or cigarettes.
Don’t switch lights or appliances on/off.
Leave electricals and phones outside until the area’s clear.
Open doors and windows to ventilate, then get everyone outside.
Step 3: Isolate the Source If Safe
If you can smell gas strongly near an appliance—like a cooktop or heater—turn that appliance’s valve off too. Often the leak’s in the flexible connection hose, not the appliance itself.
Step 4: Call a Licensed Gas Fitter Immediately
Only a licensed gas fitter can legally test and repair leaks. At Ezy-Plumb, we use calibrated gas detectors and manometers to trace leaks in pipes, meters, and appliance joints across Brighton, Sandringham, Hampton, Cheltenham, Beaumaris, St Kilda, Caulfield, and Mentone.
👉 Call Ezy-Plumb for fast, reliable service across Bayside Melbourne
Common Causes of Gas Leaks in Bayside Homes
Ageing copper lines in homes built before the 1990s
Worn or cracked hoses behind cooktops
Poorly installed fittings by unlicensed trades
Corrosion from coastal air eating into joints and valves
Every leak is unique—but none are safe to ignore.
Step 5: Test and Repair
After isolating the system, we:
Pressure-test the line to pinpoint leaks.
Replace or repair defective fittings, pipes, or valves.
Step 6: Prevent Future Leaks
Book an annual gas safety check for all heaters and cooktops.
Replace flexible hoses every 5 years.
Keep appliance areas ventilated and dust-free.
Watch for yellow, lazy burner flames—an early sign of incomplete combustion.
Real Bayside Case Studies
Brighton kitchen: Hidden leak under stone bench found with gas sniffer—replaced flex hose, certified safe.
Mentone heater line: Corroded joint behind wall—section replaced, leak cleared.
Caulfield investment property: Gas meter connection leaking; reported by tenant, fixed same-day.
FAQs About Gas Leaks
What should I do first if I smell gas?
Turn off the supply at the meter, ventilate, and call a licensed gas fitter.
Can I use soapy water to check for leaks?
You can—but only if it’s safe. Never test near pilot lights or open flames.
Is a faint smell normal?
No. Even small leaks are dangerous indoors.
How quickly can Ezy-Plumb attend?
Same-day for all Bayside suburbs.
