Firefighters called to Red Gum Way just before 8.30am spent 20 minutes finding and containing the leak before any damage could be done.

Wangaratta Fire Brigade senior station officer David Brock said a contractor was installing a fence at the new home when he drilled down and ruptured the gas line.

“It was enough to cause a significant lead,” he said. “It took us a little while to dig that up and isolate the leak.”

Neighbours were evacuated as a precaution, but the natural gas quickly dissipated into the air and checks of their homes came up clear.

Nine firefighters in three appliances responded and police cordoned off the street until the leak was under control.

Mr Brock said the contractor was unlucky as gas pipes do not usually run along fence lines, but it was always best to check with Dial Before You Dig.