Owning a home or business comes with a number of maintenance responsibilities. At Colorado Springs Utilities, we understand that some of these responsibilities may even come as a surprise to you.
We are committed to providing safe, reliable services, and customer safety is our top priority, especially when it comes to keeping your home or business safe from the potential dangers of natural gas.
What are you responsible for?
Customers are responsible for the maintenance of all natural gas lines extending from the meter to and within the home or business. Even though, in some cases, the natural gas service lines that run from the meter to your home or business are buried, maintenance is still required.
Our natural gas system is governed by Federal regulations which recommend that customers with natural gas lines buried from the meter to the primary structure should be:
- Periodically inspected for leaks;
- Periodically inspected for corrosion if the piping is metallic; and
- Repaired if any unsafe condition is discovered.
If natural gas lines are not properly maintained, they may be subject to potential hazards of corrosion and leakage. While the DOT regulations do not require that you inspect or maintain your natural gas service line, Colorado Springs Utilities along with the DOT recommend that you periodically inspect them for corrosion and leaks.
How do I know if my natural gas service line is leaking?
The following are some of the signs of a natural gas leak:
- Distinct natural gas odor;
- Areas of dead vegetation directly above the buried natural gas line;
- A natural gas meter dial that continues to move after all natural gas appliances and equipment have been shut off; and
- After watering or rain, bubbles appear directly above the buried piping.
If you suspect a natural gas leak, immediately call Colorado Springs Utilities at 448-4800.
What happens when natural gas service lines are found leaking?
We will evaluate the severity of the leak and can immediately turn off natural gas service to the premises to eliminate hazards to persons and property until the proper repair or replacement is made.
What can I do to eliminate the natural gas service line buried on my property that is my responsibility to maintain?
If your natural gas service line is similar to the second diagram below, you may request to have it reconfigured and replaced, and have the meter relocated. All costs associated with the reconfiguration and replacement are the responsibility of the customer or property owner. Once the reconfiguration and replacement is complete, Colorado Springs Utilities is then responsible for maintaining the buried natural gas service line piping.
Questions?
Please call us at 448-4800 if you have any questions. Access our Natural Gas Emergency Response Plan.
