FAQ
TL;DR: Typical cut-and-cap happens about 10 cm above the floor; "start by notifying the community board." This FAQ explains approvals, safe methods, and options to remove or cap a gas riser stub in a block flat. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160209]
Why it matters: This is for flat owners decommissioning kitchen gas who need a safe, compliant way to remove or cap the riser stub without risking leaks or disputes.
Quick Facts
- Before the meter is common property; the supplier owns piping outside the building, upstream of the main valve. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18159615]
- Typical cut-and-cap height: approx. 10 cm above the finished floor for a neat termination. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160209]
- Start with the community board; removing shared riser sections is often refused if neighbors are affected. [Elektroda, robokop, post #18160176]
- Safe method: isolate the section and purge with inert gas before cutting; avoid hot work on live gas. [Elektroda, robokop, post #18160214]
- Finish hardware: a threaded reduction and plug (cap), installed by a certified welder/gas fitter. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160089]
Can I remove the gas riser pipe from my flat entirely?
Usually, no. The riser before your meter is communal infrastructure. The community can deny removal if it serves others. Expect a local cut-and-cap in your unit instead. Full removal across neighbors is rarely approved. “Any cutting and fire treatment is excluded” on live gas. Coordinate all access and methods through the community first. [Elektroda, robokop, post #18160176]
Who do I contact first: gas supplier or the building community?
Contact the community first. The pipe before your meter is part of the building’s common installation. The supplier owns installations outside the building, upstream of the main gas valve. The community must authorize changes to shared risers. This sequence avoids jurisdiction conflicts. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18159615]
Can I remove the main riser, or only the section after my meter?
You can remove your private piping downstream of the meter with approval. You cannot remove the main riser, especially if it continues past your flat. If the riser truly ends in your unit, discuss a formal termination with stakeholders before any work proceeds. [Elektroda, stanislaw1954, post #18159559]
How do pros safely cut and cap a riser stub?
They isolate the section and fill the pipe with inert gas to displace air. This prevents an explosive mixture during cutting. After purging, they cut, thread, and install a threaded cap. Ventilation alone is not the control; inerting is the standard method. [Elektroda, robokop, post #18160214]
Is it acceptable to work “under gas” without shutting off the riser?
One resident reported a cut‑thread‑cap performed under gas when a neighbor refused disconnection. The building remained intact. Treat this as an exception handled by professionals under strict controls. Policies and safety rules may forbid it. Never DIY live‑gas work. [Elektroda, stomat, post #18291652]
Can I cap the riser at floor level with a threaded plug?
Yes, with professional methods. Pros cut near the floor, machine threads, and install a plug via a reduction fitting. “Fit the reduction with the plug thread and put it on.” A certified welder or gas fitter must perform the work and remove flammable gas from the work zone first. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160089]
Do I need my downstairs neighbor’s consent?
Yes, if work would occur in their unit or affects their supply. In the thread case, the downstairs neighbor refused a disconnection. The contractor then worked only inside the poster’s flat and left the neighbor’s line intact. Expect similar constraints. [Elektroda, stomat, post #18291652]
Where is the ownership boundary—before vs after the meter?
Piping before your meter is common building installation. The gas supplier owns networks outside the building, upstream of the main valve. Your private installation begins downstream of the meter outlet. Plan requests accordingly. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18159615]
What thread size or pipe dimensions am I likely dealing with?
In many 1970s blocks, residents encounter 1–1.5 inch riser pipes. Confirm on site before ordering fittings. A pro will measure, then select the right reduction and cap. [Elektroda, stomat, post #18159530]
What approvals or documentation should I prepare?
Request written permission from the community board to alter a shared installation. They may require a reversible termination so a future buyer can restore gas. The supplier’s remit is outside the building and upstream of the main valve. Align your plan with these boundaries. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18159615]
What are the risks of using power tools or hot works on a gas line?
Ignition and explosion. Open flame or grinding on a gas‑filled line can light an explosive mix. “Any cutting and fire treatment is excluded.” Pros isolate and purge with inert gas before cutting. Do not treat live‑gas work as acceptable. [Elektroda, robokop, post #18160176]
What tools and fittings are used for a clean finish?
Contractors use a pipe cutter or saw, a threader, sealing compounds, and an approved reduction plus a threaded plug. A certified welder or gas fitter executes and leak‑tests the joint for tightness and compliance. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160089]
How do I plan a compliant cut‑and‑cap?
Follow these steps with a licensed contractor:
- Get written approval from the community board.
- Arrange isolation and purge; pros displace air with inert gas.
- Cut about 10 cm above the floor, thread, cap, and verify tightness. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18160209]
Will removing the riser affect resale or future reinstatement?
Yes. Leave a capped, accessible termination so a buyer can restore gas later. Communities expect reversibility. Removing communal sections may block reinstatement and complicate resale. Plan a neat, reversible cap at your floor. [Elektroda, vodiczka, post #18159615]
Should I DIY any part of this?
No. “Don’t do anything yourself!” Gas work demands licensed competencies, building approvals, and controlled procedures. Hire authorized contractors only and coordinate with the community board. [Elektroda, Ssaab, post #18159589]
