Keeping our natural gas system safe and reliable

Distribution system Leaks on Atmos Energy’s system typically occur as the result of accidental damage caused by excavators or contractors during construction or street work. In fact, more than 60% of all hazardous leaks are caused by excavation damage. That’s why we continually educate the public and excavators on the importance of calling 811 before digging.

Customer-owned piping Natural gas leaks can occur on customer-owned piping, yard lines and equipment. Your gas piping should be inspected periodically for leaks. A licensed plumber or qualified contractor can locate, inspect and repair buried piping on your property. If corrosion or a dangerous condition is discovered, the piping should be repaired as soon as possible. If the leak is on the customer side of the meter, we will turn off the gas until the necessary repairs can be made. Learn more about home safety here.

Atmos Energy performs leak surveys as part of our normal operations. We use advanced technology to inspect our pipelines and identify any leaks. If a hazardous leak is found, we take immediate action to eliminate the hazard. If a non-hazardous leak is found, it is scheduled for repair.

We also rely on the public to call us if a leak is suspected. You can smell, listen and look for natural gas leaks. If you suspect a gas leak, call 911 and our 24/7 emergency line 866.322.8667. We will always send a technician free of charge to investigate.

Leaks identified on the Atmos Energy transmission and distribution systems are investigated, graded, and repaired in accordance with our leak grading and repair procedures, which meet or exceed state or federal regulatory requirements.

• Grade 1 - Leaks that represent an existing or probable hazard to persons or property that require immediate repair or continuous action until the conditions are no longer hazardous.
• Grade 2 - Leaks that are nonhazardous at the time of detection and scheduled for repair. 
• Grade 3 – Leaks that are nonhazardous at the time of detection and can be reasonably expected to remain non-hazardous. Atmos Energy schedules these leaks for repair.

Atmos Energy’s classification of leaks is based on the Gas Piping Technology Committee (GPTC) standards for leak grading as well as any applicable state and federal regulations.  The GPTC is an ANSI Accredited Standards Committee that includes members with expertise from the natural gas transmission, distribution, and manufacturing fields, as well as from federal and state regulatory agencies.  The Committee publishes the GPTC Guide to use as an implementation tool to facilitate compliance by gas pipeline operators with pipeline safety regulatory requirements.