Fixington

Moving Gas Meter

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Moving a gas meter might seem unusual, but it’s often necessary when you’re renovating your home, extending a room, or improving access to the meter for safety or convenience. It involves repositioning the gas meter to a different location, usually outside the home or in a more suitable spot. This can help improve the look of your property, free up space, or comply with safety regulations.

Because gas meters are connected to your home's gas supply, moving one is not a straightforward task. It must be done carefully and by a qualified professional to ensure safety and compliance with UK regulations. If not done properly, it can pose serious hazards including gas leaks and carbon monoxide risks.

🔧 What the job involves

Moving a gas meter means physically relocating where it sits on or near your property. The process generally involves:

  • Shutting off the gas supply safely to avoid any leaks or accidents.
  • Disconnecting the meter from the existing gas pipework.
  • Installing new pipework to connect the gas meter in its new location.
  • Securing the meter in line with safety standards and local regulations.
  • Testing the system to ensure there are no leaks or faults.
  • Obtaining certifications to prove the work meets safety requirements.

Only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally qualified and authorised to carry out this work. They will ensure all pipework and fittings comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998.

Moving a meter might also mean dealing with external factors such as planning permission or building regulations, especially if you’re relocating it outside or into a new structure.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a local Gas Safe heating engineer experienced with gas meter moves. Explain your reasons and current setup.
  2. On-site survey: The engineer visits to assess the existing installation and discuss possible new meter locations. They will check for access, pipework routing, and any obstacles.
  3. Quote provided: Based on the survey, you receive a clear cost estimate including parts, labour, and any additional work like groundwork or permissions.
  4. Scheduling the job: Agree a convenient date for the engineer to carry out the work.
  5. Gas meter relocation day: The engineer safely turns off your gas supply, disconnects and removes the meter, fits new pipework, and installs the meter in the new location. They also check for leaks and test the system thoroughly.
  6. Completion paperwork and certification: On finishing, you should receive a commissioning certificate confirming the work meets legal and safety standards.
  7. Reconnecting appliances: The engineer will restore gas supply and check all your gas appliances are operating safely.
  8. Aftercare advice: You may get guidance on how to maintain the meter’s new position and who to contact if you notice any issues.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Time taken for disconnecting, rerouting pipework, and recommissioning, typically charged hourly or as part of a package.
  • Materials and parts: New pipework (usually copper or steel), fittings, brackets, and possibly an external meter box.
  • Extras: Groundworks if the new location requires digging or building new supports; planning application fees if applicable.
  • Disposal: Removal and safe disposal of old pipework or boxes.
  • Certification: Gas Safe registered engineer’s certification and gas safe notification to your local authority.

Example itemisation

  • Labour for 1–2 days: £250–£500
  • Materials & parts: £100–£300
  • Additional groundwork or permissions: £150–£400 (varies)
  • Certification and paperwork: £50–£100

📊 What affects the price

  • Location and accessibility of the new meter position (e.g., external wall vs. inside)
  • Length and complexity of new pipework runs
  • Need for disruptive work such as chasing walls or trenching outside
  • Whether planning permission or building regulations applications are required
  • Condition of existing pipework — any required remedial repairs raise costs
  • Urgency or timeline — emergency or expedited work can increase fees
  • Local engineer rates and regional price variations

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple relocation: Moving the meter along the same wall or to a nearby spot with short pipework — around half a day to a full day.
  • More complex jobs: Involving longer pipe runs, groundwork, or relocations to external structures — 1 to 2 days is typical.
  • If planning permission is required, the overall project may take several weeks or months depending on approvals.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Moving a gas meter is not a DIY job. It involves working on the gas supply, which is dangerous and strictly regulated. Only Gas Safe registered engineers are permitted to disconnect, move, and reconnect gas meters in line with legal and safety requirements.

Attempting to move the meter yourself is illegal and puts your home and family at serious risk. It also invalidates your home insurance and could prevent gas supply providers from servicing or reconnecting your gas.

Always hire a qualified heating engineer with Gas Safe registration for this work.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay between £400 and £1200 (including VAT) for moving a gas meter in a typical UK home. The wide range depends on job complexity, materials, location, and any additional building or groundwork required.

This estimate includes labour, parts, certification, and minor extras. Larger projects with extensive pipework or planning may cost more.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Plan early: Discuss your preferred meter location clearly with your engineer to avoid multiple visits.
  • Check your current meter position and access: Consider how the move affects future meter readings.
  • Keep all paperwork: Retain certificates and documentation from your engineer for safety records and any future home sales.
  • Notify your gas supplier: Sometimes you need to inform them of planned works before starting.
  • Aftercare: Regularly check that the meter is secure and free from damage or corrosion.
  • Servicing gas appliances: Ensure your boiler and other appliances are serviced regularly by a Gas Safe engineer after moving the meter.
  • Prepare for brief gas supply interruptions: Work will require temporary disconnection.

Moving your gas meter safely and legally keeps your home compliant and your family protected. When in doubt, consult a Gas Safe registered heating engineer.