New Gas Service Installation With AltaGas Utilities

Getting a new gas service line isn't complicated! In this article we walk you through the steps of getting new gas service installed with AltaGas Utilities..

You will likely need to have the help of a licensed HVAC professional when getting gas service set up. You can find a list of licensed HVAC contractors on the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) website.

A Word About Timing

Installing new gas service connection does take some time. You should allow at least one to two (1-2) months for your new gas service to be installed, to allow for enough time for any necesary external approvals and permits. The process can take even longer during the winter, as weather (particularly frost) can delay construction. Be aware that frost conditions may delay the installation process and will involve higher costs.

Apply for New Service

In order to start the process of new gas service installation, you will need to complete and send an application form to AltaGas. You can find the application form on the AltaGas website. The completed form can be faxed, mailed, or emailed to AltaGas Utilities (Attention: Debra Scott)

If you have any questions about the form you can call AltaGas Utilities Customer Service at 1-866-986-5215, open from Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

New Service Application Checklist

AltaGas Utilities recommends that you verify the following before sending off your application:

• You have selected the correct category (town, rural subdivision or rural other) and the correct service site description (Residential, Commercial, Grain Dryer or Irrigation Pump)
• You have provided all relevant details regarding your service location (civic address, legal land description, lot/block/plan)
• You have provided all necessary contact information (full name, mailing address, telephone/fax numbers) including an alternate contact and their contact information
• You have made a frost conditions selection. Be aware that if you require gas line installation during frost conditions, you will be required to pay at least a $200 fixed charge with an additional $8.00/metre of service line installed, plus GST
• You have listed all gas appliances you plan to install (and their BTU ratings)
• You have enclosed a site plan or real property report (or a sketch of the yard with the proposed gas meter location clearly marked)
• You have signed the application

Designing the New Service & Estimating Costs

Using the information you have provided in your application, AltaGas Utilities will design the natural gas service and come up with an estimation of the total cost of installation. In some cases AltaGas Utilities may require an additional contribution above what is usually charged, but will notify you in advance if this is the case. 

Get a Site ID & Choose an Energy Retailer

Once you have accepted the cost estimate, you can continue on with the next steps towards getting natural gas service. You will need to have a site ID in order to enroll with an energy retailer for your natural gas supply. AltaGas Utilities will provide you with a site ID after having received your completed application. In Alberta you have a choice of who provides your natural gas supply, so it is a good idea to shop around in advance so that you know what your options are. You will need to have enrolled for gas supply with a retailer in order to have your gas meter installed.

Site Inspection

AltaGas Utilities has several construction requirements before new gas service can be installed. These include

• The proposed gas meter location must comply with requirements and be clearly marked
• The property must be leveled (to within 15cm of the final grade)
• The path from the meter location to the gas main must not be obstructed (free from all debris or other obstacles)
• Any below-ground water sources must be clearly marked
• All necessary permits and external approvals must be obtained

Before starting construction, an AltaGas Utilities representative will visit the site to ensure that all requirements are met and to confirm the route for the new natural gas line.

New Service Installation

AltaGas will install the new service line, but you (or a licenced professional) are responsible for installing any gas appliances.

Meter Request

You can make a request for a gas meter once AltaGas Utilities has installed your gas line. You will need to provide the following information:

• Gas Installation Permit number: 
• Gas fitter contact information: name, telephone number, etc
• Pressure Test Reading: before installing the meter, the gas piping at your service site must pass a pressure test that is witnessed by an AltaGas service technician
• Btu load: you must confirm the natural gas requirements (the "load") so that the meter that is installed is the correct size

To make a request for a meter, call AltaGas Utilities at 1-866-222-2067 during their open hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m). You will need to fax a copy of the valid permit to your local AltaGas agency office. Make sure to ask the AltaGas Customer Care representative for the appropriate fax number. The holder of the gas installation permit must be the one responsible for appliance activation and final piping connection to the meter.