How to choose a boiler installer safely
The installer matters as much as the boiler. A good installation from a reliable installer gives you years of trouble-free heating.
Credentials and verification checklist
- Gas Safe registered, verify by card number on the Gas Safe Register website
- Registration covers the specific work you need (domestic gas boilers)
- Public liability insurance in place
- Able to provide recent references or reviews
- A clear business address and contact details
- Will provide a written quote with an itemised breakdown
- Notifies building control, or is a competent person scheme member
Gas Safe is non-negotiable. It is illegal for anyone to work on gas appliances without being on the Gas Safe Register.
Always verify, don't just take their word for it.
Warranty and aftercare reality
- Manufacturer warranty
- Most boilers come with a 2–5 year manufacturer warranty as standard. Some installers can offer extended cover (up to 10–12 years) if they're an accredited installer for that brand.
- Installer warranty
- This covers the installation work itself. A good installer should guarantee their workmanship for at least 12 months. Check what's covered and what isn't.
- Service requirements
- Most warranties require annual servicing to remain valid. Understand who can carry it out, some warranties require the original installer.
- What happens if they disappear?
- If your installer goes out of business, the manufacturer warranty should still be valid, but the installer warranty won't be. Weigh this up with smaller operators versus established companies.
What good looks like
- Visit your home before quoting (not quote over the phone)
- Ask about your hot water usage and heating needs
- Explain options without pushing a particular brand
- Provide a detailed written quote with no pressure
- Give a realistic timeline and stick to it
- Show up when they say they will
- Leave the work area clean and tidy
- Walk you through the new system before leaving
- Provide all documentation and warranty information
- Be contactable after the job is done
Warning signs
- Won't provide a Gas Safe registration number
- Quotes over the phone without seeing the property
- Demands a large deposit upfront before starting
- Only accepts cash
- Pressures you to decide immediately
- Can't explain why they're recommending a particular boiler
- Won't put anything in writing
- Has no online presence or reviews
- Offers a massive discount for a same-day decision
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
There are plenty of good installers out there, don't settle for one who makes you uncomfortable.
Ways to find installers
- Personal recommendations
- Ask friends, family, or neighbours who've had work done recently. Direct experience is valuable.
- Gas Safe Register website
- Find registered engineers by postcode. Essential for verification regardless of how you found them.
- Manufacturer installer networks
- Most boiler manufacturers have networks of trained installers. A good starting point if you have a brand preference.
- Trade associations
- Bodies like the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) can help you find vetted installers.
What to do next
Before you commit, review the common mistakes people make and make sure you have a clear plan for moving forward.