Gas Supply Act 2003

This section applies if a distribution officer damages something when performing a function or exercising a power under this part.

However, this section does not apply to damage the officer reasonably considers is trivial or if the officer reasonably believes—

there is no-one apparently in possession of the thing; or

the thing has been abandoned.

The officer must promptly give notice of the damage to the person who appears to the officer to be the owner or person in possession of the thing.

However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (3), the officer must—

leave the notice at the place where the damage happened; and

ensure it is left in a conspicuous position and in a reasonably secure way.

The officer may delay complying with subsection (3) or (4) if the officer is exercising a power under section 139 or 140.

However, the delay may be only for so long as it is reasonably necessary—

for section 139—to make the gas infrastructure safe; or

for section 140—to prevent or deal with the emergency.