Frequently Ask Questions

A Gas Safety Certificate (also known as a CP12) is a legal document confirming that gas appliances, flues, and pipework in a property have been inspected by a Gas Safe registered engineer and are safe to use.

Yes.

A Gas Safety Inspection is the same as a CP12, commonly known as the Landlord Gas Safety Certificate.

Landlords are legally required to hold a valid Gas Safety Certificate for each rental property with gas appliances. Homeowners are not legally required, but annual checks are strongly recommended for safety.

A Gas Safety Certificate must be renewed every 12 months.

Failing to renew a Gas Safety Certificate on time can result in legal penalties and may affect a landlord’s ability to regain possession of the property.

A Gas Safety inspection covers:

• Gas appliances (boilers, cookers, fires)
• Gas pipework
• Flues and ventilation
• Gas tightness and operating pressure

The engineer ensures everything complies with current Gas Safe regulations.

Only a Gas Safe-registered engineer is legally permitted to carry out the inspection and issue a Gas Safety Certificate.

A standard inspection typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on the number and type of appliances.

If an appliance is found unsafe, the engineer may:

Recommend repairs before certification can be issued

Turn it off for safety

Classify it as “At Risk” (AR) or “Immediately Dangerous” (ID)

No. A Gas Safety Check focuses on safety compliance. A boiler service includes cleaning, efficiency checks, and component inspection. Many landlords choose to combine both.

Our Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) starts from £55 for up to two gas appliances (parking charges excluded where applicable).

Yes. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy:

Or before a new tenant moves in

Within 28 days of the check

Failure to comply can result in:

Serious legal consequences if an incident occurs

Fines or prosecution

Invalid landlord insurance

Issues serving Section 21 notices

Yes.

Failing to have a valid Gas Safety Certificate is a criminal offence under UK law.

Legal penalties can include:

• Unlimited fines
• Up to 6 months’ imprisonment
• Invalid landlord insurance
• Inability to serve a Section 21 notice (to regain possession of the property)
• Local authority enforcement action
• Prosecution if tenants are put at risk

Even a short delay can lead to enforcement action, especially if a complaint is made or an incident occurs.

Yes. Under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations, landlords must install a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms containing a fixed combustion appliance, such as a boiler or gas fire.

The presence of alarms is a landlord’s responsibility.

A boiler service is an annual inspection carried out by a Gas Safe-registered engineer to ensure your boiler is safe, efficient, and operating correctly.

It includes safety checks, internal inspection, cleaning key components, and adjusting the boiler where required for optimal performance.

A boiler should be serviced once every 12 months. Annual servicing helps prevent breakdowns, maintain efficiency, and protect manufacturer warranties.

For homeowners, a boiler service is not legally required but is strongly recommended.

For landlords, while a separate boiler service is not specifically required by law, the boiler must still be safe under the annual Gas Safety regulations. Many landlords combine both for full protection.

A typical boiler service includes:

Checking heating controls (thermostat, system controls, two-port valve, where applicable)

Checking gas pressure and gas tightness

Inspecting and cleaning the heat exchanger

Cleaning the condensate siphon and electrodes

Checking flue integrity and ventilation

Testing safety devices

Inspecting for leaks or corrosion

Adjusting the gas valve if required

Most boiler services take between 25 and 60 minutes, depending on the boiler type and condition.

Yes. A properly serviced boiler runs more efficiently, which can reduce gas consumption and improve overall heating performance.

No. A boiler service focuses on maintenance and performance. A Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) is a legal safety inspection required for rental properties.

If a fault is identified, the engineer will explain:

• The nature of the issue
• Whether the boiler is safe to use
• What repairs are recommended

If the appliance is unsafe, appropriate action will be taken in line with Gas Safe regulations.

Yes. Most manufacturers require annual servicing to maintain warranty validity.

No. Gas boilers must only be serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Spring and summer are ideal, as demand is lower and any issues can be resolved before colder weather.

Our boiler service is a fixed price of £80 across Surrey and London.

Yes. We provide a detailed boiler service certificate. If required, we can also complete the Benchmark warranty record.

Magnetic filter cleaning is not included as standard but can be added for £20 during the visit.

A boiler service focuses on the appliance and heating controls. Radiator checks, bleeding, and system inspection can be added as an additional service if required.

A boiler repair involves diagnosing and fixing a fault to restore the boiler to safe and proper working condition. All repairs are carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Common signs include:

Boiler switching off unexpectedly

No heating or hot water

Unusual noises (banging, whistling, vibrating)

Low pressure or frequent pressure loss

Error or fault codes on the display

Radiators not heating properly

No. If your boiler is leaking, showing fault codes, or making unusual noises, it should be checked as soon as possible. Unsafe appliances may need to be turned off for safety.

In many cases, same-day or next-day repairs are available, depending on the fault and parts required.

Most repairs take between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the issue and whether replacement parts are needed.

The cost depends on the fault and parts required. We provide clear pricing and explain all costs before carrying out any work.

We repair most major boiler brands, including Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal, Baxi, and others.

We guarantee the work carried out and any new parts fitted. However, we cannot provide a long-term warranty on older boilers or unrelated components that may fail in the future.

If the boiler is older, inefficient, or breaking down frequently, replacement may be more cost-effective. We provide honest advice based on the condition and repair history of the appliance.

We carry common spare parts, allowing many repairs to be completed on the first visit where possible.

If the boiler is classified as “At Risk” or “Immediately Dangerous,” it may be turned off and labelled in line with Gas Safe regulations. We will explain the issue and advise on the next steps.

Yes. A repair can be carried out on its own. However, a boiler service may be recommended to prevent further issues.

Yes. We provide boiler repairs for homeowners, landlords, and tenants, including urgent call-outs.

You can check:

• Boiler pressure
• Thermostat settings
• Power supply
• Error codes displayed

If the issue remains, contact a Gas Safe engineer.

Yes. We provide a detailed invoice and repair record after completing the work.

A boiler installation includes safely removing the old boiler, installing the new unit, upgrading pipework where required, fitting the flue, connecting controls, and commissioning the system.

We fully test the boiler for safety, performance, and efficiency. Before leaving, we explain how to use the boiler and controls correctly.

Most standard boiler replacements are completed within one working day.

More complex installations, such as converting from a regular boiler to a combi system or relocating the boiler, may take up to two days.

If your boiler is relatively new and the fault is minor, a repair may be sufficient.

However, if your boiler is older, inefficient, or breaking down frequently, replacement is often more cost-effective long-term.

We always assess the system first and provide honest, professional advice.

The best boiler depends on:

• Property size
• Number of bathrooms
• Hot water demand
• Existing heating system

Common options include:

• Combi boilers
• System boilers
• Regular (heat-only) boilers

We help you choose the most suitable and energy-efficient option.

Yes. Most new boilers come with a 5–10 year manufacturer’s warranty, provided the installation meets manufacturer guidelines, and the boiler is serviced annually.

We ensure all warranty conditions are met during installation

Yes. After installation, we:

• Register the boiler with Gas Safe
• Notify Building Control

You will receive a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate for your records.

In most cases, yes. Cleaning the heating system removes sludge and debris that could damage the new boiler.

Many manufacturers require system cleaning to maintain the warranty.

Yes, where required.

Modern regulations require energy-efficient controls, such as:

• Programmable thermostats
• Room thermostats
• Smart controls

Upgrading controls improves efficiency and reduces energy bills.

Yes. Fitting a magnetic filter is standard practice and protects the boiler from sludge and debris.

It helps extend the lifespan of the system and maintain efficiency.

Yes. We use protective coverings and ensure all work areas are cleaned thoroughly before we leave.

Yes. We provide a full handover, explaining:

• Boiler operation
• Thermostat use
• Timer settings
• Basic pressure checks

We make sure you are confident using the system.

You will receive:

• Boiler commissioning certificate
• Manufacturer warranty registration
• Building Regulations Compliance Certificate
• Completed the Benchmark book

All documents are important for warranty and future property sales.

Yes, we can install a customer-supplied boiler.

However, we will first confirm that the boiler is suitable for your property and that warranty conditions can be correctly registered.

The cost depends on:

• Boiler type
• System changes
• Property layout
• Flue positioning

We provide fixed-price quotes with no hidden costs after assessing your property.

Yes. We provide ongoing servicing, repairs, and support to ensure your boiler continues operating safely and efficiently.

A power flush is a professional deep-cleaning process that removes sludge, rust (magnetite), and debris from your central heating system.

It uses a specialist power flushing machine with high-flow, low-pressure water and cleaning chemicals to restore circulation and efficiency safely.

Over time, sludge and magnetite build up inside radiators, pipework, and the boiler. This can cause:

• Cold spots on radiators
• Noisy boiler or radiators
• Poor heating performance
• Higher energy bills
• Increased risk of boiler breakdown

A power flush restores system performance and helps protect your boiler.

Common warning signs include:

• Radiators are cold at the bottom
• Radiators are slow to heat up
• Brown or dirty water when bleeding radiators
• Boiler making banging or kettling noises
• Frequent pump or heat exchanger issues

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, your system may be contaminated with sludge.

Yes, when carried out correctly by an experienced engineer.

We use controlled, low-pressure flushing and adjust the process depending on the age and condition of your heating system to ensure safety.

A power flush usually takes between 3 and 8 hours, depending on:

• Number of radiators
• Property size
• Level of system contamination

Heavily sludged systems or larger properties may take longer.

In many cases, yes.

Boiler manufacturers often recommend or require a clean heating system before installing a new boiler. This protects the heat exchanger and helps maintain the manufacturer’s warranty.

A professional power flush typically includes:

• Flushing each radiator individually
• Cleaning the boiler and pipework
• Removing sludge, rust, and debris
• Neutralising and fully rinsing the system
• Adding corrosion inhibitor
• System testing after completion

This ensures the heating system is clean and protected.

Yes.

A clean heating system circulates water more efficiently, allowing radiators to heat faster and more evenly. This can improve energy efficiency and reduce running costs.

Minimal preparation is required.

We recommend clearing access around radiators. Protective sheets are used to keep your property clean during the process.

No. When done professionally, it is a clean and controlled process. The system remains sealed during flushing.

Typically, a power flush is recommended every 5–10 years, or when clear symptoms of sludge appear.

Yes, it is highly recommended. A magnetic filter helps prevent sludge from building up again and protects your boiler long-term.

The cost depends on the number of radiators and system type. We offer fixed-price power flushing with no hidden charges.

Yes. Most customers notice:

Improved system reliability

Faster heat-up times

Hotter radiators

Quieter operation

Most systems can be power flushed, but older or fragile systems are assessed first to ensure it is safe and beneficial.

An Electrical Safety Inspection, also known as an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report), checks that the electrical wiring and fixed installations in a property are safe and meet current regulations.

Landlords: Legally required for rented properties

Homeowners: Not legally required, but strongly recommended for safety

Rental properties: Every 5 years (or sooner if stated on the report)

Homeowners: Recommended every 5–10 years or when buying/selling a property

The inspection covers:

Identification of fire or electric shock risks

Consumer unit (fuse box)

Wiring and circuits

Sockets and switches

Earthing and bonding

Fixed electrical equipment

Usually 1-2 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.

Yes. The power will be switched off temporarily during testing, but this is kept to a minimum.

C1: Danger present – immediate action required

C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent repair needed

C3: Improvement recommended (not legally required)

A property must have no C1 or C2 issues to be classed as satisfactory.

If C1 or C2 faults are found, repairs must be carried out. Landlords must complete remedial work within 28 days (or sooner if specified).

Yes. Landlords must provide:

A copy to the local council if requested

A copy to tenants

No. PAT testing is separate and covers portable appliances, not fixed wiring.

No. An EICR checks existing installations. New electrical work requires an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC).

You will receive a full EICR report, detailing the condition of the electrical installation and any required actions.

The cost depends on the property size and the number of circuits. We offer fixed-price inspections with no hidden charges.

Please ensure access to:

Fixed electrical equipment

The consumer unit

All sockets and switches

No. The inspection is clean, controlled, and causes minimal disruption.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy-efficient a property is. It gives the property a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and includes recommendations to improve energy efficiency.

An EPC is legally required when a property is:

Newly built

Being sold

Being rented

An EPC is valid for 10 years, unless major changes are made to the property.

Yes. Rental properties must have:

A valid EPC before advertising or letting the property

A minimum EPC rating of E (in most cases)

If the rating is below E:

Improvement work may be required unless an exemption applies

The property may not be legally rentable

The assessor will check:

Lighting efficiency

Insulation (loft and walls)

Heating system and controls

Windows and glazing

Hot water system

Typically 30–60 minutes, depending on property size and layout.

No. An EPC assessment is non-invasive and causes no damage to the property.

Yes. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy before the tenancy starts.

Yes. The EPC includes practical recommendations that can help improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.

No. An EPC measures energy efficiency, while gas and electrical certificates check safety.

The cost depends on the property size and type. We offer fixed-price EPCs with no hidden charges.

You will receive a digital EPC certificate registered on the national EPC register.

Only if:

You want an updated rating after improvements

Your EPC is over 10 years old, or

Yes. We can advise on cost-effective improvements to help increase your EPC rating.

PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) checks that portable electrical appliances are safe to use and do not pose a risk of electric shock or fire.

PAT testing itself is not a legal requirement, but the law requires that electrical equipment is safe and properly maintained. PAT testing is the most common way to meet this requirement.

PAT testing is recommended for:


Landlords
Businesses and offices
Shops and restaurants
HMOs
Schools and nurseries
Construction sites

There is no fixed rule. The frequency depends on the environment and appliance type:

Construction sites: every 3–6 months

Offices: every 1–2 years

Rental properties: every 1–5 years

Portable appliances such as:

Extension leads

Kettles

Microwaves

Fridges

Washing machines

TVs

Computers and monitors

PAT testing includes:

Test results recorded in a report

Visual inspection

Electrical safety testing

Pass or fail label on each appliance

Usually, a few minutes per appliance, depending on quantity and access.

Normally, no, except briefly while individual appliances are tested.

Failed appliances will be:

Removed from use or repaired before retesting

Clearly labelled as unsafe

It is not legally required, but landlords should keep records as proof of compliance.

No. PAT testing checks portable appliances, while an EICR checks fixed wiring and installations.

Basic visual checks can be done, but formal PAT testing should be carried out by a competent person with the correct equipment.

You will receive:

Appliance pass/fail labels

A full PAT test report

The cost depends on the number of appliances and the property type. We offer competitive fixed pricing.

No. PAT testing is quick, clean, and causes minimal disruption.

Yes. In the UK, any gas appliance installation must be carried out by a Gas Safe-registered engineer. Installing a gas cooker yourself or using an unregistered person is illegal and unsafe.

No. Gas cooker installation involves working with gas pipework and safety systems. DIY installation can lead to gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, fire risks, and invalidated insurance.

Most gas cooker installations take 30 to 60 minutes, provided the existing gas connection is suitable and no pipework alterations are required. More complex installations may take longer.

Yes. A Gas Safe engineer can safely disconnect and remove your old gas cooker before installing the new one, ensuring everything is done legally and safely.

Not always. If the new cooker is similar to the old one, the existing connection may be suitable. However, if pipework needs extending, relocating, or upgrading, this must be done by a Gas Safe engineer.

Yes. After installation, the engineer will:

Confirm the appliance is safe to use

Carry out gas-tightness tests

Check flame quality and burner operation

Ensure correct ventilation

If your cooker isn’t installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer:

You may be putting your household at serious risk

Your installation is illegal

Manufacturer warranties may be void

Home insurance could be invalidated

You should always ask to see the engineer’s Gas Safe ID card and check that gas cooker installation is listed. You can also verify their registration on the official Gas Safe Register.

Gas cookers are safe when installed and maintained correctly. The key factor is proper installation by a qualified Gas Safe engineer and regular safety checks.

A formal gas safety certificate is usually required for landlords. Homeowners will still receive confirmation that the appliance has been installed and tested safely.

You should consider replacing your cooker if:

• It fails to ignite properly
• Flames are uneven or yellow
• You smell gas
• It’s repeatedly breaking down
• It no longer meets your needs

A Gas Safe engineer can advise whether repair or replacement is the better option.

Yes. All gas work is carried out by a fully Gas Safe registered engineer. This ensures that boiler installation, boiler repair, and gas safety inspections are completed in line with current UK regulations.

Using a Gas Safe engineer is a legal requirement for all gas work in the UK.

Yes. We carry out general plumbing services, including radiator installations, pipework adjustments, heating system upgrades, and related domestic plumbing work.

All plumbing is completed to professional standards with a focus on safety and long-term reliability.

Gas Safety Inspections (CP12)

We carry out thorough Gas Safety inspections and CP12 certificates, checking boilers, gas appliances, flues, and pipework to ensure everything meets current Gas Safe standards.

Annual inspections are a legal requirement for landlords and a critical safety check for homeowners.

Boiler Installation, Servicing & Repairs

We provide complete boiler services, including:

• Boiler installation
• Annual boiler servicing
• Boiler repairs and diagnostics

All gas work is carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer and completed to current UK regulations.

Power Flushing

Our professional power flushing service removes sludge, rust, and debris from heating systems, improving circulation and efficiency. With over 750 power flushes completed, we understand how to restore system performance properly.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)

We carry out Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to assess how energy efficient your property is and provide practical recommendations to improve its rating. Clear reporting and fast turnaround ensure you stay compliant.

Electrical Safety Certificates

We provide Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) and electrical safety certificates to ensure properties meet current regulations. These inspections are essential for landlord compliance and tenant safety.

PAT Testing

We carry out Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) to ensure electrical appliances are safe for continued use. PAT testing is particularly important for landlords, HMOs, and rental properties where appliance safety is essential.

Regular PAT testing helps:

Demonstrate duty of care

Reduce electrical risks

Protect tenants

Support compliance documentation

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