Gas is an efficient, reliable fuel source used in millions of UK homes — for heating, cooking, and hot water. But like anything in your home, it needs to be respected and maintained.
A gas leak can be dangerous, and in some cases, even fatal. But the good news? There are early warning signs that can help you catch the issue before it becomes serious.
Here are the top 5 signs every homeowner should look out for:
You’ll often smell a gas leak before you see any other signs.
Natural gas is naturally odourless, so suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinctive sulphur or rotten egg smell.
If you notice this indoors — especially near gas appliances — it’s a red flag.
Don’t ignore it. Open windows, exit the property, and follow the emergency steps below.
Can you hear a quiet hissing noise around a pipe, boiler, or meter box?
That could be gas escaping under pressure, which is extremely dangerous.
Even small leaks can create big risks — particularly in enclosed areas where gas can accumulate and become flammable.
If you find yourself constantly relighting your boiler’s pilot light, that’s a possible indicator of a gas issue.
It could suggest gas is not reaching the burner properly — or that it’s escaping somewhere before ignition.
In older appliances especially, this can be a warning sign of a failing component or leak.
Plants can sometimes alert you before you even realise something’s wrong.
Gas leaks reduce oxygen in the air, and this can quickly cause indoor plants to wilt, yellow, or die without obvious cause.
If you’ve got healthy plants suddenly struggling — and you notice other signs — it may be time to investigate further.
One of the most serious consequences of a gas leak is its effect on your health.
Exposure can cause:
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Confusion or breathlessness
These symptoms often go away when you leave the property, which is a major clue.
If you or your family experience this, especially alongside other signs, take action immediately.
1. Turn off your gas supply at the meter (if safe to do so)
2. Open all doors and windows
3. Do not use electrical switches or naked flames
4. Exit the property immediately
5. Call the National Gas Emergency Service – 0800 111 999
6. Then call a Gas Safe registered engineer/company, like Pleasant Plumbers, to investigate and repair
Regular servicing of gas appliances — boilers, cookers, fires — is essential for safety and performance.
We recommend annual gas safety checks, especially in older properties or rental homes.
At Pleasant Plumbers, all our engineers are Gas Safe registered, fully insured, and experienced in both residential and commercial settings.
Fast, friendly service
Transparent pricing
Customer-first approach
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Keep your home safe. Book your gas safety inspection today.
Call us or send a message – we’re happy to advise, inspect, or attend in an emergency.