Natural Gas & Propane Leak Detection

Natural gas and propane are efficient energy sources for heating, cooking, and hot water — but when they leak, they become serious safety hazards. At Next Inspections, detecting gas leaks is a critical part of our inspection process, especially for homes with gas appliances.

What Is Natural Gas and Propane, and Where Are They Used?

Natural gas and propane are colorless, odorless fuels used to power:

•Furnaces and heating systems

•Water heaters

•Gas ranges and ovens

•Clothes dryers

•Fireplaces and space heaters

•Pool heaters

While these appliances are safe when operating correctly, leaks can develop at connection points, valves, or in the gas lines themselves — often without any visible signs.

The Dangers of Gas Leaks

A gas leak can lead to:

•Fire or explosion — Natural gas is highly flammable; even a small spark can ignite it

•Asphyxiation — In poorly ventilated spaces, gas can displace oxygen

•Health effects — Exposure to high concentrations can cause dizziness, nausea, and respiratory issues

•Property damage — A gas explosion can cause severe structural damage and injury

The longer a leak goes undetected, the greater the risk.

How We Test for Gas Leaks

During your inspection, we use specialized detection equipment to identify gas leaks before they become dangerous. Our process includes:

1.Visual Inspection — We check all gas connections, valves, and appliances for signs of wear, corrosion, or disconnection

2.Leak Detection — We use professional gas detection equipment to test for escaping gas around connection points and appliances

3.Appliance Testing — We verify that gas appliances are operating properly and safely venting combustion byproducts

4.Documentation — Any findings are clearly recorded in your report with photos and recommendations

What a Safe Gas System Looks Like

A safe gas system should have:

•No detectable gas leaks at connection points or around appliances

•Proper venting of combustion gases to the outside (not into your home)

•Secure connections with no visible wear, rust, or deterioration

•Functioning shut-off valves that can be accessed in an emergency

What Happens If We Find a Gas Leak

If our testing reveals a gas leak, your report will include:

•The location of the leak

•The severity of the issue

•A clear recommendation to have a licensed gas technician or HVAC professional address it immediately

•Guidance on whether the affected appliance should be shut off until repairs are made

Take any gas leak seriously. Do not attempt to fix it yourself — contact a licensed professional immediately.

Prevention and Ongoing Safety

To keep your gas system safe:

•Have your furnace and gas appliances professionally serviced annually

•Know where your gas shut-off valve is located and how to use it

•Install a natural gas detector in your home (especially if you have multiple gas appliances)

•Never ignore the rotten egg smell that utilities add to natural gas — that's a warning sign of a leak

•Have any new gas connections professionally inspected and tested

The Bottom Line

Gas leak detection is a non-negotiable part of every inspection. At Next Inspections, we test every home with gas appliances using professional equipment because a leak today can become a disaster tomorrow. If we find a problem, we'll flag it clearly so you can get it fixed before moving in.

Ready for a Gas-Safe Inspection?

Call us at 672-515-7100 or book online. On-site testing and a full report delivered within 15 minutes.

Book Your Inspection Now