The U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration expanded safety requirements for excess flow valves (EFVs) to multi-family residences — including apartment buildings and other multi-residential dwellings — and small commercial buildings. EFVs already are required in new and replaced service lines that supply natural gas to single-family residences.
An EFV is a device that is designed to automatically stop the flow of natural gas through the service line if the service line breaks. The device reduces the risk of natural gas incidents. It should be noted that these devices generally do not protect against slow leaks, such as those caused by corrosion, loose fittings or that occur on customer-owned piping (you own the piping from the meter to your appliances).
An EFV typically stops the flow of gas if an excavator hits and damages the line. Excavators cause about one-third of the natural gas pipeline incidents in the United States. While an EFV may help limit the resulting damage, the best protection against such incidents is to ensure that those who may excavate on your property always call 811 to have underground utilities marked before digging.
Request for installation
Customers can expect the installation cost for an EFV to range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the location. Customers are responsible for the cost and will be billed separately. Charges will not appear on your natural gas bill. North Shore Gas has been installing EFVs for years; however, EFVs are not effective on all service lines. To determine whether your service line is eligible for an EFV and to request one, customers can call customer service at 866-556-6004. If eligible, we will work with you to schedule the installation on a mutually agreeable date.
