Permanent abandonment is required if you anticipate that you will not use gas for a year or more. This entails Washington Gas permanently disconnecting the gas line connected to your home/project at the main pipeline, which is often located in the street and will therefore require Washington Gas to obtain the necessary permit(s) before the work can be started. This will be performed at no cost to you. However, should you choose to start natural gas service again in the future, there may be a cost associated with that service.
Washington Gas will also issue a “Service Abandonment” letter, verifying Washington Gas’ completion of the permanent abandonment of service. This official document will not be issued until the natural gas service line has been physically severed and a technician has taken possession of the gas meter.
Note: The “Service Abandonment” letter is an official document that may be required by local permitting authorities before a demolition permit will be issued for the property. Furthermore, the letter is essential verification to customers that their gas service has been permanently abandoned and no longer presents a safety hazard or impediment to tear down of their structures.