TOLEDO, Ohio – A local homeowner is still waiting for Columbia Gas to finish extending a natural‑gas main line to his residence, despite having requested the service in April. John Insco, who has relied on geothermal heating and electric appliances for the past 15 years, expected the utility to turn on gas within a month or two after a neighbor’s recent conversion.
Extended wait and costly preparations
Insco says he called Columbia Gas in April and was told the work would be completed by mid‑summer. When the utility attempted to activate the line, no gas flowed. In the meantime, Insco and his wife purchased a $3,000 gas water heater, a $1,000 propane‑to‑natural‑gas stove conversion, and began converting a propane fireplace to natural gas. All of the equipment remains on site, awaiting service.
Complaint filed with PUCO
After receiving no further updates from the utility, Insco filed a complaint with the Ohio Public Utilities Commission (PUCO). He describes a pattern of repeated assurances from Columbia Gas that work is “ongoing,” followed by another ten‑day wait and the same response. “That’s where the frustration sets in,” Insco said.
PUCO responded to 13 Action News, stating that investigators have contacted Columbia Gas, which confirmed it is working toward providing service. The commission explained that before gas can be turned on, the company must verify that no stray gas remains in the area surrounding the residence. PUCO said the safety test has been completed and Columbia Gas is now extending the main line.
Utility’s position and legal action
Columbia Gas declined to comment on pending litigation or regulatory proceedings, noting that the matter may be tied to Insco’s recent small‑claims filing. Insco filed the claim over the cost of the new appliances, which he purchased based on the expectation that gas service would be ready three months ago.
According to Insco, the latest update from the utility indicated that work should begin within the next two to three weeks, with gas service expected by mid‑December. He remains hopeful that the timeline will be met.
What residents can do
Consumers experiencing similar delays are encouraged to contact PUCO for assistance. The commission’s role includes ensuring utilities complete required safety checks and adhere to reasonable service timelines. While PUCO can facilitate communication, the ultimate responsibility for completing infrastructure work lies with the utility.
For homeowners considering a switch to natural gas, experts recommend confirming the status of any required main‑line extensions before purchasing new appliances. This can help avoid costly delays and ensure that equipment is installed only when service is guaranteed.
Looking ahead
Insco’s case highlights the challenges some Ohio residents face when utility infrastructure upgrades are delayed. As the winter heating season approaches, timely resolution will be critical for families relying on natural gas for comfort and safety. PUCO’s involvement suggests that regulatory oversight may help accelerate the process, but the outcome will depend on Columbia Gas completing the final extension work.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
