How Much Does Gas Pipe Replacement Cost?

Gas pipe replacement is crucial for all homeowners and businesses in the UK as it ensures the safety of the tenants and the property, too. The entire project of replacing a gas pipe may take from a few hours to a few days, and the cost of the task may vary, too. The reason for the difference in cost and time is due to the difference in the extent of the project. Some may be straightforward and require less labour and material. 

On the other hand, there are some projects that may even require excavation. As landlords, it is important to understand the overall cost of the project so you can budget accordingly. In this article, we will discuss the various factors that affect the replacement of a gas pipe. 

Why Do You Require Gas Pipe Replacement?

A project that involves gas pipe replacement may be due to several reasons. Let us discuss a few of these:

• Ageing of Pipes: With time, pipes can corrode and damage, which can lead to major safety hazards for the tenants of the property. 
• Gas Leaks: One of the primary reasons for gas leaks on the property can be damage to a gas pipe. This is an emergency situation and may require you to get the pipe replaced urgently.
• Property Renovation: If you are planning to upgrade your property, then you will be required to replace the gas pipes in that room.
• Compliance with UK Laws: As landlords or homeowners, you must meet the gas safety standards put forward by the UK government. For this purpose, you are also required to obtain a gas safety certificate.
• Pipe Material Upgradation: If you have low-quality pipes installed on your property, then you will have to constantly get your gas pipes changed. Pipes made of lead and iron also require frequent replacements.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Gas Replacement

A project involving gas pipe replacement may not be as simple as you think. There are different factors that may affect the cost of gas pipe replacement. Let us talk about a few:

• Pipe Material: Different materials of pipe may have different prices per meter:

  - Copper is around £10 to £30 per metre.

  - Stainless steel is £15 to £40 per metre.

  - Black iron is from £10 to £25 per metre.

  - PVC or PEX is £5 to £15 per metre.

• Length of Gas Pipe: Larger properties will cost more since they require longer gas pipes to be replaced. Moreover, longer pipelines also require more labour, which is why the expenditure increases. 
• Complexity of Installation: If the labourers have to navigate through complex curves to install a gas pipe, then they will charge more. The multiple bends and concealed spaces on a property make the gas pipe replacement difficult. 
• Location of Replacement: Replacement of indoor gas pipes costs much more compared to outdoor replacement. Accessing a location inside a property may be difficult due to concealed spaces. However, if the outdoor pipe replacement requires trenching and ground work, then it may cost more. 
• Permits: According to the gas safety regulation in the UK, only a gas safe registered engineer can carry out all such types of projects. The property owner must also possess a gas safety certificate, which costs £60 to £150.
• Labour Costs: Any Gas safe registered engineer in the UK charges between £50 and £100 per hour. Therefore, the total labour cost will depend on the complexity of the gas pipe replacement project.
• Emergency Vs. Scheduled Work: In case of an urgent gas pipe replacement, you will have to pay 25% to 50% more than the usual scheduled replacement job.

Average Cost of Gas Pipe Replacement in the UK

Replacement Scenarios:

• A small section replacement which is under 3 meters - £150 to £500 
•  A full-house gas line replacement  - £2,000 to £6,000
• Gas line for any single appliance such as a boiler or cooker  - £300 to £800
• Replacement of outdoor gas lines such as BBQ or a fire pit -  £500 to £2,500
• Replacement of underground gas pipeline - £1,500 to £5,000

Additional Costs to Consider

Additional factors to consider while costing: 

• Wall and Floor Repairs: Sometimes, gas pipe replacement requires cutting into walls or flooring, which may cost extra for costs and repairs.
• Gas Leak Detection Test: Oftentimes, some properties may require a gas leak detection test. These services are only provided by a gas-safe registered engineer and cost £50 to £200.
• Appliance Connection Fees: If you wish to get a new gas appliance installed on your property, then it may cost more. You may have to pay an additional cost of £50 to £150 for every appliance.

Money-Saving Tips on Gas Pipe Replacement

• Start off by getting multiple quotes from different gas-safe registered engineers. Compare the costs and get the job done by whoever you find to fit your budget.
• Never go for any emergency replacement service. Avoid any type of premium emergency by planning in advance.
• Some companies also offer a bundled-up cost for gas safety certificates and gas pipe replacement. These are discounted prices you can avail yourself of once you discuss with your preferred service providers.
• If you wish to install gas pipes of high quality, then it may cost more. However, the overall cost may decrease as the frequency of replacement reduces. 
• Some of the local authorities offer grants and funds for improvements in gas safety.

The Importance of a Gas Safety Certificate

A gas safety certificate, or CP12 certificate, is usually required as a legal obligation by landlords in the UK. It ensures that all the gas appliances and pipework are safe to use. Here is why getting a gas safety certificate may be important for you as a landlord:

• Getting a gas safety certificate ensures that your property is safe. Moreover, it is safe for the residents as well.
• Not having a valid gas safety certificate means that you will be imposed with heavy fines and may even have to face legal action. 
• Many property insurance agencies require you to have an updated gas safety certificate. 

FAQ

Can You Replace a Gas Pipe Yourself?

According to the rules and regulations of the  UK, you cannot partake in any gas-related replacements or fixtures yourself. Critical tasks such as the installation or replacement of gas pipes require professional assistance. If you try to perform any of these tasks by yourself, you may put the lives of the residents at risk. Moreover, the gas safety authorities can also impose heavy penalties on you.

Why Should You Hire a Professional?

• Hiring a professional ensures that you are following all the safety regulations set by the UK government.
• Hiring a professional means a reduction in the risk of gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning. 
• A professional gas safe registered engineer will perform a thorough inspection. They will also provide you with a certificate that will be valid for one year. 
• Getting a thorough check by a professional means that all the checks are done thoroughly without any negligence.

How Long Does It Take To Replace A Gas Pipe?

The time it takes to replace a gas pipe varies. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the nature of the job and its complexity. In general, it may take a few hours, whereas a full house pipe replacement may take days.

Will the Gas Pipe Replacement be Covered by Insurance?

It all depends on your home policy. Some home insurance plans include coverage if it is due to an accident. Most insurance policies do not cover replacement due to weather damage.

How do I Know if my Gas Pipe Requires Replacement?

Common signs of gas pipe damage include the following:

• Noticeable gas odor that usually smells like a rotten egg.
• Noticeable rusting or corrosion on the gas pipes
• An increase in the gas bill which is unexplained
• Reduction in efficiency of appliance, for instance, if an oven does not heat properly, then it means that something is wrong with it. 

How Often Should I Replace the  Gas Pipe?

Gas pipes do not have a fixed lifespan, but they should be inspected regularly at predefined intervals. If you notice any sign of corrosion, rusting, gas leak, or damage, then you must get them replaced immediately.

What To Do If You Suspect A Gas Leak?

• Turn off the gas
• Open doors and windows to allow fresh air to pass through
• Do not use any electrical switch or flame
• Contact the gas emergency service or a gas safe registered engineer

Conclusion

The cost of replacement of gas pipes in the UK may differ depending on the material used, labour, and complexity of the task. You must ensure that the property meets the gas safety standards by obtaining the gas safety certificate on time. If you suspect gas leakage on your property, contact a gas-safe registered engineer for immediate assistance. Remember to always invest in high-quality material, as it will help prevent the additional cost of constant maintenance. Moreover, high-quality materials are also less prone to hazards.