Gas Supply Pipe Replacement

njm123

I've been contacted (again) by Wales and West Utilities as the Gas Supply Pipes are due to be replaced in my road, and onto the meters.   Maybe it's third time lucky for them.

Due to the age (and layout of the property) I've raised concerns with them previously and again now as I'm aware of potential issues if they can't just run the new plastic supply pipe from the mains to my meter through the existing supply pipe as they plan.

However I'm not getting any assurances from them so I'm asking here is anyone has any experience of supply pipe replacement on older properties.

My major concerns are 

a)  the location of the meter,  if they have to relocate this from it's current understairs position (as is likely) can I insist they attach my existing internal pipework to the new meter location under the floor effectively replacing the existing supply pipe.   Due to the location of electrics and the general layout  there is no other internal route I regard as safe.   I've seen it suggested online that they won't lift floorboards but I can do that if needed.  The only other option as far as I'm concerned is fit the meter on the external wall outside the cupboard and drill through to connect but that means running the supply pipe (Or "internal" pipework) around the outside of the house.

b)   If they go for a meter location and a route other than the one I prefer can I insist they make good to the same standard the property is now including fixtures and fittings.

I've discussed with them but all they send out is a Project Manager type who just keeps saying if they need to move the meter they'll agree with you when they are here.    Which isn't any use if that discussion is happening at best just before the gas is cut off,  as by then it's just let us do what we like or we'll cut off your gas.   

Robin9

Why do you think its not possible to run the new pipe though the old ? Does the old go through lots of right angle bends ?

The gas companies are doing this lots of time every day.

Ectophile

In most cases, there is no problem lining the pipe.

But when they came to my house, the plastic pipe got stuck and wouldn't reach the meter.  In the end, the only option was to fit a meter box on the outside of the house, and route the pipe into that.  This was done at the supplier's expense.  The preferred place for a meter these days is outside.  I can't imagine they would be happy with a meter under the floor.