Customer Buried Piping

Recently, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) issued an order to all operators of natural gas service line (natural gas distribution companies) requiring them to notify customers who own buried piping not maintained by the operator (the City) that the customer Is responsible for maintaining the buried piping.

DEFINITIONS

MAINTENANCE: Means to monitor buried piping for corrosion if it is metallic, survey for leaks and if an unsafe condition is found, shut off the gas flow and repair the unsafe condition.

CUSTOMER BURIED PIPING: Means buried gas piping not owned by the utility.

 

♦ HOW DO I KNOW IF I OWN BURIED PIPING?

The portion of piping that you own is generally the portion of gas line on your side of the meter that is buried. Many customers do not own any buried piping. 

 

♦ WHAT ARE CUSTOMER'S RESPONSIBILITIES REGARDING BURIED PIPING?

The City Of Covington does not maintain customer owned piping. All customers should periodically inspect their buried piping for leaks and customers who own buried metallic piping should also monitor for corrosion. If the buried piping is not maintained, it may be subject to potential hazards of corrosion and leakage. Customer owned buried piping should be repaired or replaced if any leaks or unsafe conditions are found. 

 

♦ HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A NATURAL GAS LEAK?

Signs of a natural gas leak include:

  • Areas of dead vegetation
  • A meter dial that continues to move after all gas appliances have been shut off
  • Unexplained gas consumption
  • Distinct natural gas odor 
 
 
♦ WHO CAN DO MAINTENANCE FOR ME?
Customers may choose to have repairs, replacements or maintenance performed by any qualified contractor. Proper construction of buried piping is critical for operations safety. Only approved installation practices and Material should be used. 

If you become aware of a leak, please call

City of Covington Customer Service 

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. - 770-385-2000 

After Hours - 770-385-2194