If you smell gas, experience low gas pressure or suspect carbon monoxide, call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999.

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      Theft of gas

      Interfering with gas pipes or meters is an extremely dangerous thing to do, and can lead to injuries and even death.

      Stealing gas is a crime and carries severe penalties, ranging from large fines to imprisonment.

      As a gas distribution network, we have a responsibility to play our part in the detection and prevention of gas theft to keep everyone safe.

      northern gas networks theft of gas
      What you need to know
      • What is gas theft?

        Gas theft refers to any method by which individuals or companies avoid paying energy costs.

        Tampering with a meter or failing to register it, is gas theft and can leave your gas meter at risk of gas leaks or fires.

        The consequences of gas theft are severe. Gas fraud is a criminal offence, meaning people who steal gas are made to pay back what they owe, are forced to pay penalties and face prosecution which can lead to a prison sentence.

        If you suspect gas fraud or think your meter could have been tampered with, it’s important you report it immediately.

        You can report it anonymously to Stay Energy Safe on o800 023 2777 or online.

      • Reporting suspected theft

        If you suspect gas theft, report it anonymously to Stay Energy Safe on o800 023 2777 or online.

      • What happens if I report gas theft?

        You can report a theft of gas anonymously. The claim will be investigated thoroughly.

        If it’s found a crime has taken place, this will be investigated and appropriate action taken.

      • How do people steal gas?

        There are various methods people use to steal gas, from unregistered usage to tampering with gas meters. Some of these methods, such as gas meter tampering, come with physical danger and financial implications too.

        Not paying for energy means everyone’s bills are adversely impacted.

        Unregistered gas usage is when a meter is consuming energy without a legal supply contract in place. This means that, although gas is being used on site, there is no gas supplier registered to track and charge for usage.

        If you believe your property is not registered, you can confirm on Find My Supplier website. If your address is not shown or no supplier is linked, you’ll need to contact a supplier of your choice to register.

      • Who investigates unregistered gas theft?

        Allegation of gas theft will be investigated by our Theft of Gas team. If the theft occurs in an area not covered by us, the relevant gas distribution network in that location will investigate.

        If the supply is registered and there is a suspicion that meter tampering has occurred, the supplier will investigate.

        Where relevant, escalation via a legal route will be pursued.

      • What to do when moving in to a new premises

        When you move to a new premises, take a photo of your meter, including the reading, and contact a supplier to complete registration. You can find more information on the Ofgem website.

      • What are the consequences of stealing gas?

        Gas theft is a crime.

        Tampering with gas meters creates a physical risk that can lead to loss of life. Gas theft also leaves meters at greater risk of gas leaks, fires and explosions, putting everyone in danger.

        If you believe a gas meter has been tampered with or you think you’ve witnessed gas theft, always report it as soon as possible – contact Stay Energy Safe on o800 023 2777 or online. It’s better to be safe.

        The cost of stolen gas is shared by all paying customers.