Atmos team working on a pipeline

How a leak occurs

Distribution System

Leaks on Atmos Energy’s distribution system typically occur as the result of accidental damage caused by excavators or contractors during construction or street work. In fact, in 2021 more than 60% of all hazardous leaks in Texas were caused by excavation damage. That’s why we continually educate the public and excavators on the importance of calling 811 before digging.

Customer-Owned System

Leaks can also occur on customer-owned piping, yard lines and equipment. Your gas piping should be inspected periodically for leaks. A licensed plumber or qualified contractor can locate, inspect and repair buried piping on your property. If corrosion or a dangerous condition is discovered, the piping should be repaired as soon as possible. If the leak is on the customer side of the meter, we will turn off the gas until the necessary repairs can be made. Learn more about home safety here.

How leaks are found

Atmos Energy performs leak surveys as part of our normal operations. We use advanced technology to inspect our pipelines and identify any leaks. If a hazardous leak is found, we take immediate actions to eliminate the hazard. If a non-hazardous leak is found, it is scheduled for repair.

We also rely on the public to call us if a leak is suspected. You can smell, listen, and look for natural gas leaks. We will always send a technician free of charge to investigate.

How a leak is graded

Leaks identified on the Atmos Energy transmission and distribution systems are investigated and graded in accordance with our repair procedures, which meet or exceed the requirements of the state or federal regulation.

  • Grade 1 - Leaks which represent an immediate hazard to persons and/or property. These leaks are addressed and repaired immediately.
  • Grade 2 and 3 - Leaks recognized as being nonhazardous at the time of detection but having the potential to become a future hazard. These leaks are monitored and scheduled for repair.

Texas repaired leak map

Below is a map displaying repaired natural gas leaks in Texas from January - July 2023 as reported on the Semi-Annual PS-95 Leak Report for Mid-Tex and West Texas divisions to the Texas Railroad Commission. We follow the Texas Administrative Code, Title 16, Chapter 8 when classifying leaks.

Legend:

  • Above ground leak (blue) - A leak on any piece of equipment or pipeline that physically sits above the surface of the ground, like a natural gas meter. Grade 3 leaks are typically above ground.
  • Below ground leak (yellow) - A leak on any piece of equipment or pipeline that physically sits below the surface of the ground, like a main or service line. Grade 1 and 2 leaks are typically below ground.
  • Third-party damage (green halo)- Third-party damage is damage to Atmos Energy's system by a contractor unrelated to Atmos Energy. It is the single greatest threat to our system.

Map Instructions:

  • Use the search bar in the top right and enter an address (include the city). If there are repaired leaks, they will display as a circle icon. Please note if you zoom out repaired leaks will not display.
  • If a circle icon does not display, there is no repaired leak in this area.
  • If a circle icon displays, click on the icon for more information.
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Atmos Energy is engaged in regulated utility operations. Atmos Energy Corporation. All Rights Reserved.