Natural gas is used for cooking, heating, and hot water across homes in Metro Detroit. While gas systems are generally safe, aging infrastructure means that homeowners should be vigilant of any issues that can arise. Here’s what you need to know about gas line safety in Metro Detroit, recent infrastructure upgrades, and when it’s time to get an inspection.
Significant Gas Line Upgrades in Metro Detroit
One of the largest recent natural gas infrastructure projects in the region is the Four Cities Metro Pipeline. Started in Spring 2025, the project is expected to be completed by 2029. This $182 million upgrade spans eight miles across Oakland and Macomb counties to replace steel gas mains built in the 1950s with safer and high-capacity 24-inch pipes. Over 800,000 residents will benefit from the new infrastructure upgrade.
These upgrades demonstrate proactive efforts to protect Metro Detroit homes and neighborhoods. But it’s also important for homeowners to take the necessary precautions and educate themselves on gas line safety.
Why Homeowners Should Care about Gas Line Safety
While utilities upgrade main pipelines, service lines (the segment connecting your home to the main) remain the homeowner’s responsibility. Aging or damaged lines can pose risks. Shifting soil and weather changes can cause pipes to become damaged over time.
When to Schedule a Gas Line Inspection
Here are clear warning signs or life events that warrant a gas line inspection from a licensed Metro Detroit plumber or certified inspector:
1. Yard or Structural Work
Installing fences, decks, sprinkler systems, or any activity that involves digging in your yard can disturb buried pipes. Make sure to have your yard marked for gas lines and other utilities before digging. If you suspect that you’ve damaged a pipe during a project, schedule an inspection right away.
2. Noticeable or Unusual Odors
Mercaptan added to natural gas smells like rotten eggs. Even a faint, consistent odor should prompt an immediate gas line check.
3. Fluctuating Gas Bills
An unexplained rise in usage without more appliances or activity may indicate a hidden leak and should be investigated.
4. Facing Old Pipe Materials
If your home was built pre-1960s, and especially if it has original metal gas lines, it’s likely built from bare steel or iron. These corrode over time and should be inspected regularly.
5. Seasonal Changes
After Michigan’s severe freeze-thaw cycles, service lines near foundations or porches may shift. An annual pre‑winter check is a smart investment.
6. Buying a Home
To protect your investment and your family, consider having the gas lines and plumbing inspected before buying a house. This can save you a lot of headache in the future.
What a Professional Gas Line Inspection Involves
When you call Waterwork Plumbing for a gas line inspection, expect:
- Pressure testing of all accessible lines
- Visual inspection of exposed lines above ground
- Leak checks near fittings, meters, and valves
- Soil testing for corrosion potential (if lines are buried)
- Compliance audit for burial depth and local codes
- Repair recommendations—from re-burying to full line replacement
When to Act Fast
Schedule a professional inspection immediately if you:
- Smell gas inside or outside your home
- Lose gas service unexpectedly
- Saw signs of construction or excavation nearby damaging the line
- Experienced major tree or foundation shifts
- Live in a structure with aging or corroded piping
Delaying could lead to dangerous leaks, fire hazards, or violent pipe failures.
Why Choose Waterwork Plumbing for Gas Line Inspections
As your trusted plumber in Metro Detroit, Waterwork Plumbing has been serving homeowners in the area for over 30 years. We’re very familiar with the plumbing systems, gas lines, and local regulations in the Metro Detroit area. Our team of experienced licensed plumbers will quickly evaluate and repair any gas line issues and leaks to protect your home. Call us today at (248) 542-8022 to schedule your gas line inspection in Metro Detroit.
