Yes. Gas pipework can be installed near electrical wiring in Sydney, but the arrangement must comply with the gas and electrical requirements applying in NSW. A visible gap alone does not establish compliance. The materials, routing, support, protection, condition and nearby equipment all matter.
Is there a minimum clearance?
There is no single minimum clearance between a gas pipe and an electrical cable that can safely be applied to every installation. The licensed trades assessing the work must check the applicable requirements of AS/NZS 5601.1 and AS/NZS 3000, including NSW adoption requirements and relevant manufacturer instructions. The broader NSW gas installation standards and rules also govern who may assess or alter the pipework.
Do not rely on a general 25 mm or 50 mm rule. Requirements may depend on:
- Routing: Crossings and long parallel runs require different assessment.
- Direct contact: Touching services may be exposed to abrasion, vibration or movement. A fault involving conductive pipework may also create shock, arcing or ignition risks.
- Support and protection: Pipes and cables must be secured and protected from foreseeable damage, including drilling, screws and later maintenance.
- Equipment and heat: Additional requirements may apply near switchboards, outlets, appliances, ignition sources or heat-producing equipment.
- Condition: Corrosion, damaged insulation, exposed conductors or loose supports require prompt professional attention.
Who should assess or alter the services?
Do not move, bend, separate, clip or fasten either service yourself. From a safe position, you can note whether they touch, run parallel, appear loose or show visible damage. Do not open electrical enclosures, disturb gas joints, remove linings or enter a roof space or confined area to investigate.
Electrical inspection or alteration requires an appropriately licensed electrician. Gas testing, disconnection, relocation or repair requires an appropriately licensed gas fitter. Both trades may need to coordinate where changing one service affects the other.
If you smell or hear escaping gas, avoid switches, electrical devices and ignition sources. Leave the area, keep others away and understand when proximity to a gas line is dangerous. Contact the gas network emergency service or our emergency gas leak team from a safe location. Call 000 if there is immediate danger.
If the services touch or appear damaged, contact our licensed gas fitting team to assess the gas pipework and coordinate with a licensed electrician where required.