Fixington

Relocate a gas pipe

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Relocating a gas pipe is a task often needed when you’re refurbishing your kitchen, installing new gas appliances, or making structural changes that affect the position of existing gas pipework. Perhaps you want to move a gas hob or a boiler, or you are extending your home and need to redirect the gas supply.

Because gas is involved, any work on gas pipes must be carried out safely and correctly to prevent risks like gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning. This means it’s important to hire a qualified Heating Engineer who is Gas Safe registered. They have the specialist knowledge and certification to handle gas safely and in line with UK Building Regulations.

🔧 What the job involves

Relocating a gas pipe means altering the position of existing pipework to suit new layouts or appliances. This typically includes:

  • Shutting off the gas supply safely before starting.
  • Removing or cutting existing pipework.
  • Installing new pipe sections, usually copper or sometimes flexible stainless steel pipe approved for gas use.
  • Ensuring all joints are tight and properly sealed using approved fittings.
  • Pressure testing the new pipe run to check for leaks.
  • Reconnecting gas appliances or fitting new ones as needed.
  • Providing a safety certificate that confirms the work meets Gas Safe and Building Regulations standards.

Because gas appliances and pipework are safety-critical, relocation usually requires a professional survey and work by a competent engineer.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a Gas Safe registered Heating Engineer to discuss your needs and arrange a site visit.
  2. Home survey and quote: The engineer will inspect your existing pipework, understand your goals, measure where the pipe needs to be relocated, and provide a written quote.
  3. Confirm booking: Agree on price, date, and timescale for the work to start.
  4. Day of works: The engineer will turn off the gas, remove or adjust pipework, install the new pipes, test for leaks, and reconnect appliances.
  5. Final checks and certification: Once all work is done, the engineer will perform a safety inspection.
  6. Job completion and paperwork: You receive the Gas Safety Certificate and any other relevant documentation to keep for your records.
  7. Aftercare advice: The engineer will explain how to monitor your appliances and when to schedule servicing.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Time on site by a Gas Safe registered Heating Engineer; expect hourly rates or fixed quotes.
  • Materials/parts: Pipes (usually copper), fittings, sealants, wall fixings.
  • Additional works: Sometimes chasing walls or floor adjustments to conceal pipes, or replacing pipe supports.
  • Disposal: Safe removal and disposal of old pipes and waste materials.
  • Certification: Issuing a Gas Safety Certificate upon completion.

Example costing breakdown:

Item Approximate Cost
Labour (3-4 hours) £180–£300
Pipes and fittings £50–£120
Wall chasing (if needed) £60–£150
Gas Safety Certificate £60–£100
Waste disposal £20–£40

📊 What affects the price

  • Access: Ease of reaching existing and new pipe routes; tight spaces or multi-storey work cost more.
  • Complexity: Number of bends and length of new pipe required, wall chasing, ceiling cavities.
  • Regulations and certification: Work must comply with Building Regulations (Part J) and requires a Gas Safety Certificate.
  • Remedial works: If existing pipework is damaged or appliances need adjustments.
  • Location: Prices vary between regions; London and the South East tend to be higher.
  • Timeline: Urgent or out-of-hours work often costs more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Straightforward relocation: Moving a single gas pipe a short distance, such as for a hob or boiler swap, can often be done in 2–4 hours.
  • More complex jobs: Longer pipe runs, multiple appliances, or chasing walls for pipe concealment may take 1–2 days to complete.

The exact duration depends on your property layout and scope of work.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

No. Gas pipe relocation is not suitable for DIY due to the significant safety risks involved including gas leaks or improper installation. UK law requires anyone working on gas installations to be Gas Safe registered.

Attempting unqualified work is illegal and could invalidate your home insurance and place your family’s safety at risk. Always hire a professional Heating Engineer who is Gas Safe registered and knowledgeable about UK regulations.

💰 Typical UK price range

For most homeowners, relocating a gas pipe will typically cost between £300 and £700, VAT included. Simple jobs at the low end might involve minimal pipe runs and no chasing, while more complex work will be towards the higher end.

This is an estimate only — always get a detailed quote based on your specific situation.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Plan ahead: Decide exactly where your gas appliances will go before booking.
  • Check installer credentials: Confirm your chosen Heating Engineer is Gas Safe registered; you can check online.
  • Clear access: Ensure clear access to pipe routes and appliances on the day.
  • Keep paperwork: Store your Gas Safety Certificate safely; it’s important for future selling or maintenance.
  • Aftercare: Arrange for regular servicing of gas appliances as recommended (usually annually) to keep them safe and efficient.
  • Notify your insurer: Inform your home insurance provider about any changes to your gas installations.

Following these steps will help make your gas pipe relocation straightforward, safe, and compliant with UK regulations.