What Builders Want to Know

October 30, 2026

Have a question about Washington Gas service, the New Business process, project timelines, meter locations, infrastructure requirements, permits, easements, energy efficiency programs, or any other topic related to your development projects? We're here to help.

Each quarter, we'll feature answers to questions submitted directly by builders and developers across our service territory. Our goal is to provide practical guidance, share helpful insights, and address common challenges that can help keep your projects moving forward. Your question may be featured in an upcoming edition of the Builder Newsletter. Submit your questions to: buildernews@washgas.com with the Subject: Builder Q&A

Builder Tip: Engage Early. Communicate Often. The most successful projects involve ongoing coordination between the builder, developer, design team, and Washington Gas from planning through construction. Early collaboration helps identify challenges before they impact your schedule.

Q: When should I contact Washington Gas for a new development project?
A: As early as possible, ideally during site planning and entitlement. Early engagement allows Washington Gas to evaluate infrastructure needs, identify potential constraints, provide preliminary guidance, and help align gas service installation with your construction schedule. The sooner we are involved, the greater the opportunity to avoid costly delays and redesigns.

Q: What information is needed to start the New Business process?
A: To begin the review process, submit a completed Service Information Request (SIR), site plan, utility plan, gas load information, and your anticipated construction timeline. Including proposed meter locations and project phasing details can further streamline the review. Complete and accurate information helps reduce back-and-forth requests and keeps your project moving forward.

Q: What are the most common issues that delay gas service installation?
A: The most frequent causes of delays include incomplete or revised site plans, meter location changes after design is finalized, missing easements, right-of-way conflicts, permit issues, and delays in responding to information requests. Keeping project details current and communicating changes early helps minimize disruptions.

Q: How can builders help keep projects on schedule?
A: Communication is key. Share schedule updates regularly, notify Washington Gas of design or scope changes as soon as possible, confirm meter locations before construction begins, and

ensure permits, easements, and site access requirements are in place before requesting installation. Proactive coordination helps avoid surprises and keeps your project on track

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