How to check the boiler when viewing a house

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also come with its fair share of surprises, especially when it comes down to how to check your boiler.

Imagine moving into your dream home, only to discover that your boiler breaking down. It’s not only a hassle, but it can also be a significant expense. Fortunately, with proper precautions and a bit of foresight, you can avoid these unpleasant surprises.

Let’s explore how to check the boiler when viewing a home. 

Key Takeaways

• Find out when the boiler was last serviced.
• Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, leaks, and damp patches.
• Find out the age and make of the boiler. 

 

Will my report from my surveyor check the condition of the boiler?

 A report that you will have carried out by your surveyor will check the structural aspects of the house and may also be able to note visible signs of any damage. However, they are unable to open the boiler in any way to provide a full inspection.

 This is where a Home Service Report can come in handy. With gas-safe qualified engineers carrying out the report, you are able to get a full understanding of not only your boiler’s condition but also the property’s plumbing, boiler, gas appliances, and heating system. 

 This report will identify defects, deterioration, damages, and/or conditions that may indicate potential danger, as well as provide recommendations for improvement.

 

So how do you check the condition of the boiler?

Here are some things to check when viewing a potential property: 

 

1) Location 

The first step in checking the condition of the boiler is assessing its location within the property. Ideally, the boiler should be easily accessible for maintenance and repairs. Look for a well-ventilated area with ample space around the boiler. Accessibility ensures that engineers can service the boiler efficiently when needed, keeping your home running smoothly. 

You’ll also want to locate the water tank and stopcock to make it easier and quicker if you ever need to turn off the water supply in a hurry. 

 

2) When was it last serviced? And when is it next due?

Inquire about the boiler’s service history to understand its maintenance schedule. A regularly serviced boiler is less likely to experience breakdowns and operates more efficiently. Ask the current homeowner or real estate agent when the boiler was last serviced and when it is due for its next service. This information provides insight into the boiler’s condition and whether it has been properly maintained.

It can also give you a better idea of when you will need to book your next service, allowing you to plan for that cost. A boiler service costs around £100, which, done annually, saves you money by lowering your energy bills. 

 

4) What if the boiler hasn’t been serviced? What should I look out for?

If the boiler hasn’t been serviced regularly, it’s important to assess the potential risks and costs involved. Neglected boilers are more prone to breakdowns and may operate less efficiently, leading to higher energy bills. Consider scheduling a professional inspection, such as a home service report, to evaluate the boiler’s condition and identify any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks.

 

Here are some red flags to look out for if the boiler hasn’t been serviced:

• rust.
• damp patches around the boiler.
• signs of previous leaks.
• The boiler is very old.

 

Boilers are an expensive investment, especially after just buying a house. So knowing as much about your heating system can help determine how much you spend. New boilers can cost anywhere from £1300 upwards, with things like the size of the house and how many bathrooms you have to consider. 

Safety precautions to take once you have moved into your new home would be to install carbon monoxide detectors. This will give you peace of mind if your boiler is older or if you don’t have much information about it. 

 

5) Check the radiators.

Inspect the radiators throughout the property to ensure they are heating evenly and efficiently. Cold spots or inconsistent heating may indicate underlying issues with the boiler or central heating system. Bleeding the radiators can help remove trapped air and improve their performance. Additionally, check for signs of corrosion or leaks around the radiators, which could signal problems with the boiler’s pipework.

 

6) How energy-efficient are the boiler and central heating system?

 All modern boilers will be rated for efficiency under the new European label introduced in 2015. You’ll want to assess the energy efficiency of the boiler and central heating system to determine their impact on your utility bills. Look for energy-efficient models with high-efficiency ratings, which can help reduce your heating costs and environmental footprint. Consider asking for information on the energy performance or conducting an energy audit to identify potential savings opportunities.

 

7) Is the boiler covered by a warranty?

Check if the boiler is covered by a warranty and inquire about its terms and coverage. A warranty provides added peace of mind and may cover repairs or replacements in the event of unexpected breakdowns. Be sure to review the warranty documentation carefully and understand any limitations or exclusions that may apply.

 

8) What type of boiler is it? 

Finally, determine the type of boiler installed on the property. Common types include combi, system, and conventional boilers, each with its own advantages and considerations. Understanding the type of boiler allows you to assess its suitability for your heating needs and lifestyle.

You will also want to find out the make and model of the boiler, in case you need to put it on any type of insurance. 

 

By checking all of these points as you view a potential new home and conducting thorough inspections, you can avoid surprises and ensure the boiler in your new home is in good condition. At Home Service Reports, we’re here to take the stress out of surprise repair costs and help you discover them before purchasing. 

Our expert team of qualified engineers has meticulously crafted a detailed assessment of your new property’s plumbing, boiler, gas appliances, and heating system to identify defects, deterioration, damages, and/or conditions that may indicate potential danger, as well as providing recommendations for improvement. This gives you the power to negotiate on a property you are looking to purchase.

 

If you have any questions or need assistance with your new homes heating system, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your satisfaction is our top priority.

Speak to one of the team members today: Customer.services@homeservicereports.co.uk