Fixington

Move A Boiler

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Moving a boiler means relocating your existing heating boiler to a different part of your home. Homeowners often need this service when renovating, extending, or repurposing rooms — for example, moving a boiler from a kitchen to a utility room or from a living room wall to a cupboard.

Why move a boiler? It could be for better aesthetics, improved access for maintenance, creating space, or complying with safety recommendations. However, moving a boiler is more complex than simply detaching and reattaching it elsewhere, so professional help is essential.

🔧 What the job involves

Relocating a boiler covers several technical tasks carried out by a qualified heating engineer, registered with Gas Safe for safety and legal compliance:

  • Disconnecting the boiler safely from gas, water, and electrical supplies.
  • Removing and capping off old pipework to prevent leaks or water damage.
  • Extending or rerouting gas, water, central heating, and condensate pipework to the new boiler location.
  • Installing flue pipes properly to direct exhaust gases outside, following Building Regulations.
  • Mounting and connecting the boiler at the new site.
  • Commissioning and testing the boiler to ensure it operates safely and efficiently.
  • Obtaining necessary documentation, such as a Gas Safe installation certificate.

Because the boiler deals with gas and heating systems, strict safety standards and regulations (Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, Building Regulations Part J) apply. The engineer will ensure all work complies.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry
    Contact a Gas Safe registered heating engineer, explain your requirements, and arrange a survey.

  2. Survey and quote
    The engineer visits your home to assess the current boiler setup, new location suitability, pipework access, and flue routes. They then provide a detailed quote.

  3. Agreeing the works
    Confirm the quote, schedule a convenient date for the relocation, and clarify preparation needed on your part.

  4. Pre-work preparation
    You clear the areas around the existing and new boiler locations and arrange access.

  5. Day of relocation
    The engineer safely disconnects the boiler, removes or modifies pipework, and installs connections at the new site.

  6. Testing and commissioning
    Once installed, the boiler is thoroughly tested for leaks, safe gas flow, and proper operation.

  7. Certification and paperwork
    The engineer provides you with a Gas Safe certificate and any other relevant documentation.

  8. Aftercare advice
    The engineer explains how to care for your boiler post-move and answers any queries.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Time for a qualified Gas Safe engineer to disconnect, reroute, and reconnect pipework plus testing. Typically the largest cost.
  • Parts and materials: Pipes (copper/PLUMB), fittings, flue extensions or new flue materials, seals, valves.
  • Disposal: Removing the old pipework or any old boiler parts may cost extra.
  • Certification: Issuing a Gas Safe Compliance Certificate.
  • Additional work: If extra work such as wall chasing, plastering, or electrical rewiring is needed, this will add to the cost.

Example breakdown for a straightforward boiler move:

  • Labour (8 hours): £400
  • Materials (pipes, fittings, flue): £150
  • Certification: £80
  • Disposal: £50
  • Total (excl. VAT): ~ £680

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility of the current and new boiler location (tight spaces or difficult routing increase costs).
  • Complexity of gas and water pipe rerouting required.
  • Whether new steps like wall chasing, floor lifting, or plastering are needed.
  • Compliance with current Building Regulations and safety rules.
  • Any remedial plumbing or electrical work discovered during installation.
  • Distance of pipework runs; longer routes cost more.
  • How urgently you need the job done.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple boiler move (same floor, no major obstacles): 6 to 9 hours. Usually a day’s work.
  • Complex move (different floor, major pipe rerouting, flue alterations): 2 to 3 days.
  • Additional time may be needed if wall chasing or decorations repairs are required afterward.

Your engineer should give a realistic time estimate during the survey.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Moving a boiler is not a DIY job. UK law requires anyone carrying out gas work in homes to be registered with Gas Safe. Mistakes may cause gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks, or boiler damage.

Unless you are a qualified Gas Safe registered professional, never attempt to move or alter your boiler yourself. Instead, hire a reputable engineer.

💰 Typical UK price range

  • A straightforward boiler move typically costs between £600 and £1,200 (excluding VAT).
  • More complicated installations can exceed £2,000.
  • All prices should be considered estimates — always get a written quote.
  • Prices include labour, basic materials, certification, but exclude major structural work or decorating.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check your boiler warranty and service history; moving could affect warranty terms.
  • Arrange for a service before and after moving if possible.
  • Clear areas for work and ensure safe access to both the original and new boiler positions.
  • Keep all paperwork, including Gas Safe certificates and invoices, for future reference.
  • Confirm upfront that the engineer is Gas Safe registered and experienced in boiler moves.
  • Discuss any changes to controls or heating zones you may want at the same time.

Moving your boiler is a significant task with safety, legal, and practical factors to consider. Getting professional help and preparing well will make the process smoother and safer for your home.