Gas Leak Inspection
All gas appliances and piping inspected for leaks. No leaks permitted; repair or replace before certification.
Spec
Applies uniformly from Certified upward.
Scope
All natural-gas and propane plumbing inside the dwelling — supply piping, fittings, appliance connections, and shutoff valves.
Requirements
- 01.
A licensed plumber or gas-fitter must perform a leak-detection test on the entire gas system (typically a pressure-drop test with a manometer).
- 02.
Any leak — even a "soap-bubble" trace — must be repaired and retested before sign-off.
- 03.
Connection fittings should be tested with electronic leak detector or soapy water at every joint.
Documentation
Evidence the inspector / Institute will need.
- 01.
Signed leak-test report from the licensed gas fitter, dated within the project window.
- 02.
Photo of the manometer reading at start and end of the hold period (if used).
Guidance
Why even tiny leaks matter
A small natural gas leak is not just a methane release (climate impact) — it can elevate indoor NO2 and benzene exposure even when the appliance is OFF. A 2023 Stanford study found methane leaks in 80% of inspected residential kitchens, with measurable benzene downstream.
Note
After certification, occupants should be advised to call the gas utility and have an outside-the-meter sniff test done annually. Most utilities offer this for free.