If you’ve ever stared at a cold radiator and thought, “Who actually puts the boiler in?”, you’re not alone. The short answer: a qualified Gas Safe engineer does the job. Not every plumber is automatically qualified – you need the right certification, insurance and experience to fit a boiler safely and legally.
In the UK, the law says only a registered Gas Safe engineer may work on gas appliances, including boilers. This includes many plumbers who have completed the Gas Safe registration, but it also covers specialist heating engineers who may not call themselves “plumbers” day‑to‑day. The key is the Gas Safe card – ask to see it before any work starts.
Why does it matter? A boiler is the heart of your heating system. A mistake can cause carbon monoxide leaks, fire risk or expensive repairs down the line. A certified professional follows strict safety checks, pressure tests and documentation, protecting both you and your home.
First, the engineer will assess your property. They’ll check pipe sizing, ventilation, and the location of the new boiler. This is why you might hear terms like “system compatibility” or “flue routing”. Next comes the removal of the old unit – this is not a DIY job. The old boiler must be safely disconnected, drained and disposed of according to environmental regulations.
During the install, the engineer will:
The whole process usually takes a full day, but the exact time depends on the type of boiler (combi, system or regular) and any extra work required, like upgrading radiators or adding a new thermostat.
Cost‑wise, expect a base price for the boiler itself plus labour. A typical install in South Shields runs between £700‑£1,200 for a standard model, but high‑efficiency condensing boilers can push the total closer to £2,000. Always ask for a written quote that breaks down parts, labour and any additional work.
Once the job is done, the engineer should test the system for at least 30 minutes, demonstrate how to operate the thermostat, and answer any questions you have. If anything feels off – strange noises, leaks or error codes – call them back right away.
Bottom line: while many plumbers can install boilers, only a Gas Safe‑registered professional should do it. Check their credentials, get a clear quote and make sure they follow the full commissioning checklist. That way your heating stays safe, efficient and reliable for years to come.
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