The caveat emptor of buying a new house is ‘Let The Buyer Beware.’ This is especially the case for homes that have an ageing boiler.
Before you commit to the purchase of a new home, check the boiler is in good working condition and that it is the right type of boiler for your needs.
It’s also a good idea to ask the current owners how old the boiler is and when it was last serviced. You should request the central heating system receives a service before you move in.
With relevant information to hand, you will have a better idea of how likely you can expect the boiler to last. This will also help you to decide whether you should take the existing boiler in your current home or buy a replacement boiler in the future.
Whatever you decide, it is the homeowner's responsibility to ensure the boiler meets government guidelines. The new standards for home boilers include a performance delivery of 92% ErP. Boilers should also be installed by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.
InsurancezCover
If the boiler in your new home is no longer under warranty, you have the choice of taking out insurance cover. Be careful. In the UK, only 21% of home insurance policies include boiler cover as standard.
Take Your Existing Boiler With You
If your existing boiler is still under warranty, or younger than the boiler in your new home, it could make economical sense to take the boiler with you.
However, make sure the boiler you plan to move has sufficient power to heat your new home and there is room to install it.
For example, if you are upgrading from a two-bedroom flat to a four-bedroomed semi, a 28KwH condenser boiler will not have sufficient power to heat your new home efficiently.
Likewise, if you are downsizing and have a system boiler with an external water tank, does your new home have sufficient storage space for the water tank?
You will also need to ensure your new home will accommodate your existing boiler. Consider whether the pipework is accessible or whether you will need to dismantle part of the wall to install your unit.
New energy-efficient boilers require space for a flue to be fitted. Flues should not be positioned near windows or doors, and if the boiler is installed near a drain, a waste pipe should also be installed.
Replacement Boilers
The boiler in your new home should ideally be an energy-efficient A-rated unit. New boilers can shave as much as £350 a year off utility bills and cutting edge A-rated boilers are available to buy from around £568-£1200.
If your existing boiler and the boiler in your potential new home is not a contemporary energy efficient boiler, you may also want to consider installing a replacement boiler for convenience.
Parts for older boilers can be sparse, and if the boiler does break down, it could take several days or even weeks to find the right parts. As the winter months start to kick in, you don’t want to be without hot running water and heated radiators.
In addition, check whether your new home has double or triple glazing windows. Preventing draughts will lower your energy bills. If there is a conservatory extension, ask the owners if the conservatory roof is modern and made from energy-efficient materials or whether there is a history of leaks, damp, mould or condensation.
