Are earthquake valves required by building codes?

Building code requirements vary by location. In many earthquake-prone areas, seismic gas shut-off valves are mandatory for new construction and during certain renovations or property transfers. Local building codes may specify which valve models are approved for installation. Even where not required by law, these valves are strongly recommended as a safety measure in seismic zones to prevent gas-related fires and explosions following earthquakes.

Can installing an earthquake valve affect my insurance rates?

Many insurance providers recognize the safety benefits of earthquake valves and may offer discounts on premiums. The specific savings depend on your insurance company's policies and your property's location. Contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about potential discounts for seismic safety improvements, as offerings vary between companies and regions.

Who is qualified to install an earthquake valve?

Licensed natural gas plumbers are the most qualified professionals for earthquake valve installation. In most states, plumbers must maintain specific certifications and insurance coverage to work with gas lines. These professionals understand local building codes, proper valve placement, and how to ensure the system functions correctly during an emergency. Always verify that your installer has the appropriate licenses before proceeding with installation.

What happens if my earthquake valve activates?

When an earthquake valve activates during a seismic event, it automatically shuts off the gas supply to your home. After the valve has triggered, you'll need a qualified professional to inspect your gas system for damage before resetting the valve and restoring gas flow. This safety measure prevents gas from flowing through potentially damaged pipes or into your home when appliances might have been compromised during the earthquake.

Top-Rated Gas Pipings Experts in Merrimac, MA

Nicholas Savvas Plumbing & Heating

Nicholas Savvas Plumbing & Heating

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

17 years of experience

We are dedicated to providing our clients with the very best in service, installation, and repair for all phases of your plumbing needs. We specialize in a variety of residential and commercial services and take pride in the attention to detail put into each of the projects we're involved with. We're known for our quality work and the integrity of our business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction.

"Called Nick early Friday morning he was able to come out and complete the job of replacing water heater that day. I had a small issue after he left called and left a message he called back immediately and issue was rectified with in the hour. Great service! Efficient!"

Tara B on August 2020

We are dedicated to providing our clients with the very best in service, installation, and repair for all phases of your plumbing needs. We specialize in a variety of residential and commercial services and take pride in the attention to detail put into each of the projects we're involved with. We're known for our quality work and the integrity of our business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction.

"Called Nick early Friday morning he was able to come out and complete the job of replacing water heater that day. I had a small issue after he left called and left a message he called back immediately and issue was rectified with in the hour. Great service! Efficient!"

Tara B on August 2020

Addario, Inc.

2 Gill Street, Suite J

2 Gill Street, Suite J

Customers say: True professional

992 local quotes requested

27 years of experience

For over 2 decades, Addario's has provided over 50,000 Massachusetts homeowners with reliable, trustworthy, and complete home services. Backed by the area's best warranty. Addario's is an A+ Better Business Bureau rated company and was voted one of the fastest growing companies in 2013. We are licensed and insured, able to perform any and all home service jobs related to plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, drain cleaning, sewer replacement, one-day bathroom remodels, generators and much more. If your home needs it, Addario's can do it. Comprised of more than 50 employees, homeowners can trust Addario's to perform all types of home repairs, inspections and replacements for all of your homes vital mechanical systems. As a valued customer, you will receive a homeowners checklist to help you maintain your home in between visits. If any aspect of your heating and cooling system isn't working properly rest assured we'll fix it!

"Excellent work overall. The team was highly professional and responsive and was able to work under a tight timeline. Two thumbs up for this company."

Ian C on June 2025

For over 2 decades, Addario's has provided over 50,000 Massachusetts homeowners with reliable, trustworthy, and complete home services. Backed by the area's best warranty. Addario's is an A+ Better Business Bureau rated company and was voted one of the fastest growing companies in 2013. We are licensed and insured, able to perform any and all home service jobs related to plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, drain cleaning, sewer replacement, one-day bathroom remodels, generators and much more. If your home needs it, Addario's can do it. Comprised of more than 50 employees, homeowners can trust Addario's to perform all types of home repairs, inspections and replacements for all of your homes vital mechanical systems. As a valued customer, you will receive a homeowners checklist to help you maintain your home in between visits. If any aspect of your heating and cooling system isn't working properly rest assured we'll fix it!

"Excellent work overall. The team was highly professional and responsive and was able to work under a tight timeline. Two thumbs up for this company."

Ian C on June 2025

Eisen Plumbing & Heating, LLC

Eisen Plumbing & Heating, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

38 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We have been in the industry for over 30 years and strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Good overall experience."

Bob N on June 2018

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We have been in the industry for over 30 years and strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Good overall experience."

Bob N on June 2018

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical - Plumbing

131 Steadman Street, Suite 6

MillTown Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical - Plumbing

131 Steadman Street, Suite 6

Customers say: Quick response

84 local quotes requested

46 years of experience

Since 1979, we've provided the highest quality protection against plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and property managers in the Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire. At MillTown Plumbing, Heating, HVAC, and Drain Cleaning, we're a family owned and operated business. We know the value of fast service, from a professional and reliable team. Give us a call today at (617) 725-2674! We look forward to serving you.

"STAY AWAY. Numerous issues and they will cost you more money without you knowing it. I just found out that I was on a **DO NOT SERVICE** list (after all the grief they have given me.) I am ticked off. Here is a summary due to the character limit: 1. They installed a faulty HTP tankless hybrid water heater. I argued with them for what I think was a good year before a HTP tech finally determined that I was right. Replaced it with a Rinnai RUR199in. 2. They took (stole) my oval ductwork and replaced it. I was fine with the replacement. I looked the other way but it was expensive and they never asked - they just hauled it away. Most homeowners probably do not realize how expensive and unusual that oval ductwork is. I could have even recycled it at a profit. 3. I recommended them to a neighbor only to find cops all over their home one day. Their plumber stole their special needs kids controlled medications after having them go into other rooms to turn on and off the faucets. I just chalked it up to a bad apple. 4. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They short-cycled the new air handler. Vent was right next to the main return (2in. away.) Unecessary wear and tear, high electric and gas usage, and discomfort. Whatever was coming out was immediately suck back in. Unfortunately I did not realize this until a couple years later. 5. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They never installed the 2-stage wiring. See directly above. Look it up. HUGE discrepancies in temperatures and sky high bills. Premature wear and tear. I wrote Freddy Jr. about this which might be the reason why I am on their list. But still, that is their job to get it right and not mine. Most people would have no clue for the life of their system. 6. They did not hook up the high-limit kill switch/float on the condensation pump which led to a flood and destroyed antiques. I hooked it up in less than 10 minutes. 7. I was told one day that the original manger was fired because he was skimming clients from the company. 8. There is no check valve on the recirculation line which they installed on the new tankless they replaced. I believe it is code and now I have to hire someone else ([business name removed]) to fix their screwup which likely killed my internal recirculation pump. Again, unecessary wear and tear along with high energy bills. I was willing to look the other way on so many things but the truth is they get away with this because most homeowners do not know any better. In other cases, I figured that no one is perfect and we all make mistakes. But then to find out that I was blacklisted a few years later because I called them out on their BS after I needed their help yesterday? The only thing I can think is that I ended up costing them more money on things they should have done properly in the first place. It is a company that needs better oversight and apparently has awful management. I am not bragging but I have an advanced engineeering background creating petroleum engineering training material for big oil (aka plumbing on steroids--makes this look like childs play), programming, developing systems for hydroponics, working with heat and waste recovery systems, fixing combustion engines, and building computers for over 20 years. My point is that I noticed a lot of things that most people would overlook because I know how many things work. I called them out and that is the only explanation as to why I could have been blacklisted. But do yourself a favor and go with [business name removed] or [business name removed] instead. It is not to say that others cannot screw up, but this is my experience with them and the straw that broke the camels back. Mention that you read this here and thank you. Perhaps the next company will not mess you up under the guise/protection of teamsters and protectionist unions that overcharge with ridiculous licensing requirements that ends up meani..."

Charles L on January 2024

Since 1979, we've provided the highest quality protection against plumbing, heating, cooling and drain problems for residential, commercial and property managers in the Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire. At MillTown Plumbing, Heating, HVAC, and Drain Cleaning, we're a family owned and operated business. We know the value of fast service, from a professional and reliable team. Give us a call today at (617) 725-2674! We look forward to serving you.

"STAY AWAY. Numerous issues and they will cost you more money without you knowing it. I just found out that I was on a **DO NOT SERVICE** list (after all the grief they have given me.) I am ticked off. Here is a summary due to the character limit: 1. They installed a faulty HTP tankless hybrid water heater. I argued with them for what I think was a good year before a HTP tech finally determined that I was right. Replaced it with a Rinnai RUR199in. 2. They took (stole) my oval ductwork and replaced it. I was fine with the replacement. I looked the other way but it was expensive and they never asked - they just hauled it away. Most homeowners probably do not realize how expensive and unusual that oval ductwork is. I could have even recycled it at a profit. 3. I recommended them to a neighbor only to find cops all over their home one day. Their plumber stole their special needs kids controlled medications after having them go into other rooms to turn on and off the faucets. I just chalked it up to a bad apple. 4. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They short-cycled the new air handler. Vent was right next to the main return (2in. away.) Unecessary wear and tear, high electric and gas usage, and discomfort. Whatever was coming out was immediately suck back in. Unfortunately I did not realize this until a couple years later. 5. HUGE ROOKIE mistake. They never installed the 2-stage wiring. See directly above. Look it up. HUGE discrepancies in temperatures and sky high bills. Premature wear and tear. I wrote Freddy Jr. about this which might be the reason why I am on their list. But still, that is their job to get it right and not mine. Most people would have no clue for the life of their system. 6. They did not hook up the high-limit kill switch/float on the condensation pump which led to a flood and destroyed antiques. I hooked it up in less than 10 minutes. 7. I was told one day that the original manger was fired because he was skimming clients from the company. 8. There is no check valve on the recirculation line which they installed on the new tankless they replaced. I believe it is code and now I have to hire someone else ([business name removed]) to fix their screwup which likely killed my internal recirculation pump. Again, unecessary wear and tear along with high energy bills. I was willing to look the other way on so many things but the truth is they get away with this because most homeowners do not know any better. In other cases, I figured that no one is perfect and we all make mistakes. But then to find out that I was blacklisted a few years later because I called them out on their BS after I needed their help yesterday? The only thing I can think is that I ended up costing them more money on things they should have done properly in the first place. It is a company that needs better oversight and apparently has awful management. I am not bragging but I have an advanced engineeering background creating petroleum engineering training material for big oil (aka plumbing on steroids--makes this look like childs play), programming, developing systems for hydroponics, working with heat and waste recovery systems, fixing combustion engines, and building computers for over 20 years. My point is that I noticed a lot of things that most people would overlook because I know how many things work. I called them out and that is the only explanation as to why I could have been blacklisted. But do yourself a favor and go with [business name removed] or [business name removed] instead. It is not to say that others cannot screw up, but this is my experience with them and the straw that broke the camels back. Mention that you read this here and thank you. Perhaps the next company will not mess you up under the guise/protection of teamsters and protectionist unions that overcharge with ridiculous licensing requirements that ends up meani..."

Charles L on January 2024

Mora's Plumbing & Heating, LLC

Mora's Plumbing & Heating, LLC

5 years of experience

Emergency services offered

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and stand behind our work. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

"I had a water line break in my home at 2am in the morning. I called Frank and he was at my home first thing in the morning. He fixed my water line and the charge was very reasonable. I have also had Frank replace a couple of fittings in one of my bathrooms. He is the person I relie on the take care of my plumbing needs."

Jim F on June 2025

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and stand behind our work. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

"I had a water line break in my home at 2am in the morning. I called Frank and he was at my home first thing in the morning. He fixed my water line and the charge was very reasonable. I have also had Frank replace a couple of fittings in one of my bathrooms. He is the person I relie on the take care of my plumbing needs."

Jim F on June 2025

All Drain Services, Inc.

140 Old Derry Rd

4.85(

164

)

•

Approved Pro

All Drain Services, Inc.

140 Old Derry Rd

4.85(

164

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers

229 local quotes requested

All Drain Services, Inc. has been in the drain service business for over 18 years and is owned by Manny and Gloria Vega. Our commitment to customer service is unmatched. Our years of experience have taught us that in our line of business, that is what counts. Our dedication to delivering a quality job has been the backbone of our success, and this commitment is instilled in all our employees. All Drain Services, Inc. is open 24/7, including holidays. We offer emergency and regular maintenance services.

"Patrick was great. He pulled a Rat from my kitchen line so great service!"

Tim L on February 2023

All Drain Services, Inc. has been in the drain service business for over 18 years and is owned by Manny and Gloria Vega. Our commitment to customer service is unmatched. Our years of experience have taught us that in our line of business, that is what counts. Our dedication to delivering a quality job has been the backbone of our success, and this commitment is instilled in all our employees. All Drain Services, Inc. is open 24/7, including holidays. We offer emergency and regular maintenance services.

"Patrick was great. He pulled a Rat from my kitchen line so great service!"

Tim L on February 2023

All Work Construction INC.

183 Londonderry Tpke

New on HomeAdvisorNew on Angi•

Approved Pro

All Work Construction INC.

183 Londonderry Tpke

New on AngiNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

975 local quotes requested

25 years of experience

All Work Construction is proudly the #1 Home Improvement Company for Hooksett NH and beyond. We specialize in bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exteriors such as vinyl siding, shingle roof replacement, replacement windows, and exterior doors. Contact us today to request our home remodeling services. We offer free estimate consultations! (We serve NH, Northern MA, and partial ME)

Clear Water Pump & Well Service, Inc.

PO Box 6

4.49(

37

)

•

Approved Pro

Clear Water Pump & Well Service, Inc.

PO Box 6

4.49(

37

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

298 local quotes requested

14 years of experience

Clear Water Pump & Well Service, Inc. is your trusted partner for all your well, water filtration and pump service needs in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With over 15 years of experience, we are the leading experts in the industry. Our commitment is to deliver exceptional service without compromising on quality, all at an affordable price. We have extensive knowledge of the latest technology in the Water Well Industry in Massachusetts and beyond, and our services are available throughout the region. Contact us today and let us earn your business.

"Good job done."

John N on November 2024

Clear Water Pump & Well Service, Inc. is your trusted partner for all your well, water filtration and pump service needs in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With over 15 years of experience, we are the leading experts in the industry. Our commitment is to deliver exceptional service without compromising on quality, all at an affordable price. We have extensive knowledge of the latest technology in the Water Well Industry in Massachusetts and beyond, and our services are available throughout the region. Contact us today and let us earn your business.

"Good job done."

John N on November 2024

Norman Builders

63 Peaselee Crossing Rd

4.84(

84

)

•

Approved Pro

Norman Builders

63 Peaselee Crossing Rd

4.84(

84

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

186 local quotes requested

We are a full service home building company that has completed residential home construction in over 20 different cities and towns in Massachusetts & New Hampshire. We have a team of engineers, architects, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians that provide top notch quality at competitive pricing. Customer service and responsivneness are a very important part of this company. You will always have a return phone call as soon as possible and our workers take great pride in their work with professionalism and a great attitude. Our projects are completed on time, on budget, and our customer's happiness is our number one priority. If you are looking for an honest contractor with a proven track record, please call or email today!

"From start to finish, it was a great experience and the work that was done on our bathrooms was exceptional - especially the tile work. Communication was great and every detail was looked after. They were very responsive to any issues we had and corrected them quickly without question."

Nancy K on December 2024

We are a full service home building company that has completed residential home construction in over 20 different cities and towns in Massachusetts & New Hampshire. We have a team of engineers, architects, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians that provide top notch quality at competitive pricing. Customer service and responsivneness are a very important part of this company. You will always have a return phone call as soon as possible and our workers take great pride in their work with professionalism and a great attitude. Our projects are completed on time, on budget, and our customer's happiness is our number one priority. If you are looking for an honest contractor with a proven track record, please call or email today!

"From start to finish, it was a great experience and the work that was done on our bathrooms was exceptional - especially the tile work. Communication was great and every detail was looked after. They were very responsive to any issues we had and corrected them quickly without question."

Nancy K on December 2024

Long Home Products

300 Myles Standish Blvd

2.65(

20

)

•

Approved Pro

Long Home Products

300 Myles Standish Blvd

2.65(

20

)

•

Approved Pro

5673 local quotes requested

80 years of experience

With over 70 years of experience in home improvement, Long Home Products is the industry-leading company you can trust to give you peace of mind. We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We are experts in all aspects of roofing, bathroom, window and door projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

"Ayden was very kind and insightful. I was happy to meet an incredible worker like that from Long Home."

Alayna L on April 2025

With over 70 years of experience in home improvement, Long Home Products is the industry-leading company you can trust to give you peace of mind. We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We are experts in all aspects of roofing, bathroom, window and door projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

"Ayden was very kind and insightful. I was happy to meet an incredible worker like that from Long Home."

Alayna L on April 2025