"I Think There’s a Gas Leak”: What Happened at a Showing in Durham & What You Should Know

Yesterday, I showed a home in Durham Region, and I can’t stop thinking about it—mostly because I still have a headache today from what I experienced.

This wasn’t your typical showing. I was in the house with a client for about 20 minutes when something didn’t feel right. Everything had seemed normal at first—great space, the kind of place we’d typically spend time chatting about layout and upgrades. But once we got into the basement, I noticed a smell.

At first, I brushed it off as the usual “basement smell.” But within a minute or two, it started to hit stronger. It reminded me of propane—like when a gas dryer has a small leak or isn’t venting properly. It wasn’t overpowering at first, but it was definitely there. That’s when my gut kicked in.

I think there’s a gas leak.

⸻

What I Did—and What I Wish I’d Done Differently

As a REALTOR®, I’ve been through hundreds of showings. We’re used to a bit of dust, dampness, stale air. But this was different. I called the listing agent right away to let them know what I’d noticed.

Then I left the house.

Within the hour, I developed a pounding headache that hasn’t gone away—even now, the next day, I’m still feeling it. And that’s scary. It made me realize how subtle gas exposure can be, and how we don’t always recognize danger in the moment, especially when we’re trying to “just finish the showing.”

Looking back, I wish I had:

• Left the house immediately without hesitation

• Called Enbridge Gas emergency line (1-866-763-5427) right away

• Encouraged my client to stay outside while I sorted it out

I did what I thought was right in the moment, but now I see that reporting it to the utility company first would’ve been the smarter and safer move—for everyone.

⸻

Warning Signs of a Gas Leak

Natural gas on its own doesn’t have a smell, which is why utility companies add something called mercaptan, which gives off that rotten egg or sulphur odour. In this case, it was more like a propane smell from the dryer, which can sometimes indicate a leak or venting issue with gas appliances.

Here are some common warning signs to take seriously:

• Rotten egg or propane-like smell

• Hissing or whistling near appliances or pipes

• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea

• Fatigue or light-headedness

• Dead plants near gas lines or bubbles in standing water

• Carbon monoxide detectors going off—or, in this case, being unplugged

Yes, you read that right. In this home, the carbon monoxide plug-ins in the basement were unplugged. I noticed that after the smell, and it made everything feel more serious.

⸻

What To Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you ever find yourself in a similar situation—whether you’re a REALTOR®, a homeowner, or just visiting—here’s what you need to do immediately:

1. Get out of the house. Don’t wait.

Even if the smell is faint or you’re unsure, leave the building. Better safe than sorry.

2. Don’t touch anything on the way out.

That includes light switches, appliances, your phone, or anything that could cause a spark.

3. Once you’re outside and safe, call 911 or Enbridge Gas (1-866-763-5427 in Ontario).

Let them know you suspect a gas leak. They’ll dispatch someone right away.

4. Then—and only then—call the listing agent, homeowner, or property manager.

I made this mistake in order of priority. Safety first, always.

5. Wait for clearance before going back inside.

Don’t trust your nose. Wait for a professional to give you the all-clear.

⸻

A Note About Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Seeing unplugged CO detectors in the basement sent chills down my spine—especially knowing how invisible and deadly carbon monoxide is. It’s a reminder for everyone:

• Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are plugged in and working

• There should be one on every level of the home

• Test them monthly

• Never remove them for staging, renovations, or “just a day”

These detectors save lives. If they’re missing or unplugged, that’s a red flag no one should ignore.

⸻

For My Fellow REALTORS®

We juggle a lot—appointments, paperwork, keeping our clients safe and informed. But here’s the truth: no deal is worth your health or safety.

I wish I had trusted my gut faster and walked out as soon as the smell hit me. I wish I’d made that emergency call before anything else. I wish I hadn’t waited for the headache to tell me something was wrong.

This isn’t about panic—it’s about prevention. I’m sharing this so that maybe someone else thinks twice, acts faster, and doesn’t end up feeling how I feel right now.

⸻

For Buyers and Sellers

If you’re a homeowner getting ready to sell, take a moment and:

• Check for gas leaks or lingering odours

• Test all carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

• Have a licensed technician inspect your gas appliances

If you’re buying or viewing homes, don’t hesitate to speak up if something feels off. That includes smells, headaches, or strange noises. You’re not being dramatic—you’re being smart.

⸻

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of real estate, especially in a hot market. But health and safety come first—always.

If you take anything away from this post, let it be this:

Trust your instincts. Leave first. Call right away. Report it.

Your life is more important than any showing, sale, or timeline.

Yesterday was a reminder that even as professionals, we’re not invincible—and that safety is a shared responsibility.

Stay safe out there.