6 Questions to Ask About Gas Piping Installation

A licensed gas plumber will map out your business's gas piping and ensure the installation is safe and meets local code. Talk with a pro early in the construction process to ensure they have the best access to run piping. Dig into these six gas pipe questions to prepare for a great planning conversation. 

1. Where do you need piping located? 

The locations for gas piping should be discussed and decided early in your remodel or new build process. Installing or moving gas pipes requires open access to walls and floors, so it’s important to determine gas line placement before structural changes or finishing work. Be ready to discuss where each appliance will go or ask the plumber for their recommendation. Contact a gas plumber to discuss your project, timeline, and budget. 

2. What kind of location is your business?

Moving or installing a gas line can involve excavating the land or drilling through drywall. The plumber will want to know about barriers on the property, such as any complex terrain, existing plumbing layouts, and structural obstacles. If you have blueprints or sketches of your building, share them with your plumber so they can avoid barriers such as beams and electrical wiring. Your plumber will handle safety details such as placing shut-off valves near appliances and ensuring adequate ventilation. 

Your pro will also need to ensure they meet local building codes. 

3. Which appliances need gas? 

Create a list of appliances that need gas, such as ovens, stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, and gas furnaces, along with a rough idea of where you want to put them. A plumber will calculate the total BTU and ensure you have adequate flow and the correct pipe sizes. Try to anticipate any gas appliances you want to add in the future, too, as it is complex and expensive to move or add gas lines later. 

4. Are you moving gas lines or adding new ones? 

Moving gas lines is sometimes easier and less expensive than adding new ones, but not always. If you don’t know where your existing gas lines are, your pro can help. They can also offer different gas line options and explain the estimated costs.

5. When do you want to start the project? 

Be ready to discuss your project timeline and when you’d like to begin the work. It could take anywhere from a week to several weeks to get on a licensed plumber’s schedule, so be sure to contact a gas plumber near you to discuss your options, budget, and timeline. 

6. What is your budget?

While the cost of gas line installation depends heavily on the difficulty of moving or laying new pipes and the BTUs needed, expect to pay $15 to $25 per linear foot. The pipe material, property type, labor expenses, and permit cost all impact the total price.