EICR

EICR Compliance

Why you should renew your EICR report before 2025

 

2025 is fast approaching, and it may be time for the EICR on your rental property to be renewed. With the legislation coming into effect in 2020, the next wave of renewals is due at the same time countrywide. 

Electrical installation condition reports (EICRs) were introduced to assess the safety and functionality of the electrical installation. Each report is carried out by a qualified electrician who can identify any potential issues that may pose a risk.

 

 

High demand for electricians  

With the EICR legislation being implemented in 2020, electrical standards are evolving. It is predicted that there will be a shortage of electricians to carry all of the required reports out. Due to this, it is being recommended that landlords have these booked in early to avoid becoming non-compliant and have peace of mind that this is booked in for 2025.

Safety risks

You can avoid dangers such as electrical shocks, fire hazards, and circuit overloads that might otherwise go unnoticed. Faulty or deteriorating wiring, loose connections, and outdated equipment all contribute to accidents, especially in older properties. Through a comprehensive inspection, an EICR assesses the condition of your electrical systems, pinpointing areas that need attention or repairs. Ultimately, an EICR provides peace of mind, ensures compliance with safety standards, and minimises the chance of costly, preventable accidents in both residential and commercial spaces.

 

Avoid non-compliance issues

When you’re a landlord in the UK, there are a few things you need to have done, and an EICR is one of them. In the UK, EICRs have become mandatory for all rented properties under The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Every 5 years a new EICR report should be carried out or when there is a change of tenancy in order for you to remain compliant and avoid fines.

 

 

Stay clear of costly repairs

A thorough EICR inspection covers all aspects of your electrical installation. From wiring to fuse boards, providing an expert assessment of the overall condition of the system. This includes detecting hidden issues such as:

  • Overloaded circuits
  • Wear and tear on wiring and connections
  • Outdated fuse boxes
  • Faulty or damaged outlets

Fixing these issues early is not only safer but often more affordable than dealing with emergency repairs or extensive rewiring.

 

 

Maximising Property Value and Market Appeal

An EICR adds value to your property and can even boost its market appeal. Especially to potential buyers or tenants who prioritise safety and efficiency. Knowing that a property has a recent EICR in place is reassuring for prospective tenants or buyers. It can make your property more attractive and easier to rent or sell.

 

Be prepared for potential future regulations

With a focus on sustainability and safety, governments are likely to introduce even more stringent regulations around electrical installations and energy efficiency in the future. Having a current EICR puts you one step ahead, ensuring that your property is already compliant or close to compliant with any future regulatory changes.

 

 

Booking in your Electrical Installation Condition Report before 2025 is not just a regulatory formality; it’s important in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and value of your property. With changing regulations, increasing energy demands, and the ever-present risk of electrical faults, an up-to-date EICR provides peace of mind and a proactive approach to property management.

How your boiler quote works

How your boiler quote works: Explained by our boiler team manager

After discovering you need a new boiler, your next step is to get a boiler quote. But where do you begin? Boiler quotes can be confusing, but knowing the process beforehand allows you to comfortably make the best decision for you, your home, and your budget. 

 

Wherever you may need a new boiler installed, we’ll allow Hannah, our boiler team manager, to run you through the process and give you the confidence to start asking for boiler quotes.

 

Hannah – With 18 years of experience in the industry, starting out as an apprentice engineer and working my way up to now being gas-elec’s boiler team manager, I want to give you as much information as possible as you start to look for boiler quotes. 

The best places to look for quotes

First things first, where is the best place to look for quotes? You’ll want to be looking for a reputable company that covers the area where you live. You could find boiler companies by doing a Google search or possibly through local advertising, depending on where you live.

What information do you need to provide for a quote?

After finding a few companies that fit this criteria, you’ll need to know what information to provide them with. 

If you are going through an online quote form, here are some of the most frequent questions that you’ll need to answer. 

  • Are you a homeowner or a landlord? 
  • What type of fuel does your boiler use?
  • What type of boiler do you currently have? (combi, system, etc.)
  • What type of boiler do you want? 
  • Do you want to move the location of the boiler? 
  • How old is your boiler?
  • What type of property do you have? (detached, semi, terrace, flat, etc.)
  • How many bathrooms does your property have? 
  • How many radiators do you have in your property? 
  • Do your radiators have thermostatic valves?
  • Does your current boiler work?
  • Where does your flue come out? (wall or roof)

 

After you have answered all of these questions, it should give you a few boiler options with quotes. If it doesn’t, the company may need a bit more information. This should give you a good initial idea of pricing. 

If you don’t want to fill out one of these online quote forms and would prefer to speak to a person, these questions will likely still need to be answered to give you the most accurate quote. However, this can be done over the phone by a qualified member of the team. 

 

What happens after an online quote?

After the initial quote from the boiler team, we pass it onto one of our gas safe engineers local to you to carry out a survey. This is to ensure that the final quote is accurate and tailored to your property. The engineer will also check the access and ensure all the necessary materials are ordered in advance to ensure a smooth install.

 

 

 

Final quote

After the gas safe engineer has completed the survey, it will come back to me or another person in the boiler team. With all the necessary information, we can provide you with your personalised final quotation, and we can get your boiler installation booked on a day to suit you.

 

 

Ready to get started on your boiler quote?

Now that you’re all clued up on how it works, we can help you get started on your boiler quote. We can answer any questions you may have and give you a helping hand to find the right boiler for you. Available 9-5, Monday to Friday, you can reach us at boilers@gas-elec.co.uk or speak to me or one of the boiler team members on 0800 041 8614.

 

Boiler installation prep

Boiler installation: How to prepare

How to prepare for your boiler installation

You have your boiler installation date booked in, so what things do you need to prepare for? It might not have been something you had thought about until after booking your install-in. To keep your day as stress- and hassle-free as possible, there are a few things you can do to make your life easier. Let’s walk you through how to prepare for a boiler installation. 

 

Key takeaways:

  • Clear enough space around your boiler and a clear pathway to allow access for the engineer.
  • Know where your water, gas, and fuse box are within the house.
  • Plan for not having heating or hot water for the duration of the installation.

Schedule a site survey:

Before you have your boiler installation date booked in, a site visit will usually be organised with a gas safe engineer. This is done to assess your current heating system, evaluate the space where the new boiler will be installed, ensure the engineer brings all of the correct supplies, and address any concerns you may have. This step allows us to tailor the installation process to your home’s unique needs, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

 

Clear the installation area.

Before our engineer arrives for the boiler installation, make sure to clear the area where the new boiler will be installed. Remove any clutter, furniture, or obstacles to provide our team with enough space to work safely and efficiently. Additionally, ensure that access to the installation site is unobstructed to facilitate the transportation of equipment and materials.

 

Consider ventilation requirements:

Proper ventilation is essential for the safe operation of your new boiler. Our engineer will assess your home’s ventilation system during the site survey to determine if any modifications or upgrades are necessary. Adequate ventilation not only ensures the efficient combustion of fuel but also helps prevent the build up of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.

 

 

 

Arrange for water and gas supply:

Ensure that the water and gas supplies to your home are accessible and in good condition before the installation day. Our engineer will need to connect the new boiler to both the water and gas mains, so it’s essential to address any issues with these utilities beforehand. If you suspect any leaks or irregularities, contact a qualified plumber or gas engineer to inspect and repair the problem promptly.

 

 

Plan for disruption:

While we strive to minimise disruption during the installation process, it’s essential to plan for some inconvenience, especially if you rely on your heating system for everyday comfort. Consider making alternative arrangements for heating and hot water during the installation period, such as using portable heaters or staying elsewhere temporarily if necessary.

 

 

Being as prepared as possible for your new boiler to be installed can help alleviate some of the stress and inconvenience in your day-to-day life. Taking these things into consideration will help make the life of the gas engineers a lot easier, allowing you peace of mind while it’s being installed. 

If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming installation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help every step of the way.

 

 

 

What is the process of a boiler installation?

  1. Initially, we will discuss a few questions about your property to provide you with a quote for the right boiler to suit your property.
  2. Once a quote is agreed upon, a convenient date is set for your new boiler to be installed. 
  3. Our engineer will call you 30 minutes before arriving at the agreed-upon time and date to install your new boiler. 
  4. Once the engineer arrives, the boiler and electrics will need to be switched off to allow the engineer to work safely. As well as this, the gas will need isolating and testing for leaks before the work can begin. 
  5. From there, the central heating system is flushed and cleaned. 
  6. After this, your brand new boiler will be installed. 
  7. Once fitted, the engineer will check that everything is working correctly, and everything will be switched back on again. The boiler will also be registered with gas-safe. 
  8. Your old boiler will be taken away by our engineer to save you the hassle.

 

Have more questions or are interested in a quote on a new boiler? Speak to one of the boiler team members on 0800 041 8614 or boilers@gas-elec.co.uk, and we’ll be happy to help.

 

 

Hats on for hope: £500 raised for brain tumour research

Wear a hat day 2024

Hats on for hope: On Thursday, March 28th, the team at gas-elec spent the day wearing funny hats all for the great cause of raising money for Brain tumour research.  A great effort was made by the whole team, with cowboy, Christmas, and umbrella hats all in the mix!

 

But it wasn’t just our silly hats around the office helping us reach our fundraising goal, but Ollie Pontone’s microwave pasta bushtukka trail. Yes, you heard that right. With Ollie quoting, ‘3 Italians die every time someone eats microwave pasta, it only seems right for him to face the *not that bad* challenge of eating microwave macaroni and Bolognese pasta. Thanks to Ollie’s (and the Italians) sacrifices, the team has managed to reach the fundraising goal of £500!

Install a new boiler

How long does it take to install a new boiler?

How long does it take to install a new boiler?

First you have the stress of your boiler breaking down. You are left thinking, How long will this take out of my week to have a new boiler installed? 

 

An important question to ask ensuring there is as little disruption to your day-to-day life, we can help you answer. 

 

Whether your boiler still works or has stopped working completely we can help. Here are some things to consider when looking to get a new boiler installed and how long it may take. 

Install a new boiler

Find out what type of boiler you have.

Why is this important?. To be able to give you a better idea of how long a new boiler installation will take, we need to find out what type of boiler you have. This is because install times can vary quite a bit depending on your system. 

 

  • Combi boiler 
  • regular/system boiler 
  • Back boiler

 

 

A straight combi swap 

From 1 day 

For a straight combi swap, where you’re replacing an existing combi boiler with a new one, installation is often straightforward. Since there’s no need to modify the heating system layout significantly, the installation time can typically be shorter. Depending on the job, a competent installer might complete a straight combi swap within a day in many cases.

 

A system boiler swap to a combi boiler 

1–3 days

Swapping a system boiler for a combi boiler involves more extensive work compared to a straight combi swap. This is because a system boiler operates differently and requires additional components, such as a hot water cylinder. The engineer will remove the existing system boiler and cylinder, adjust the pipework, and install the new combi boiler. Depending on the complexity of the existing system, this type of installation might take a few days to complete. 

 

 

 

A back boiler to a combi swap 

2-3 days

Replacing a back boiler with a combi boiler is often more labour-intensive due to the different layout requirements. Back boilers are typically located behind fireplaces and are integrated into the chimney breast. Converting to a combi boiler might involve significant alterations to the pipework and flue system. As such, this type of installation can take longer, potentially spanning several days, depending on the specifics of the job and the accessibility of the installation area.

 

 

What if I want to move my boiler? 

A half day on top of time for boiler installation

 

If you want to move your boiler to a different location within your property, additional time and effort will be required. Moving a boiler involves rerouting the pipework, adjusting the flue system, and ensuring compliance with building regulations. The time needed for this type of installation will depend on the distance and complexity of the relocation, but it generally adds to the overall installation timeline.

 

 

 

Other factors that may change the time taken to install a new boiler are: 

 

Having a smart thermostat installed 

 

While you have your new boiler installed, your gas safe engineer will install your new smart thermostat for you at the same time. This may add a small amount of additional time to your installation, and you would need to look into your options and pick out the right one for you beforehand. 

 

 

 

When is the best time of the year to have a new boiler installed? 

The best time of year to have a new boiler installed is typically during the warmer months, such as spring or summer. During these seasons, demand for heating is lower, and installers may have more availability in their schedules. Additionally, having a new boiler installed before the colder months ensures that your heating system is ready to keep you warm and comfortable when you need it most.

 

 

 

How do I dispose of my old boiler? 

With gas-elec, this is something you don’t have to worry about, as we will take care of the disposal of your old boiler for you.

gas safety check vs boiler service

Gas Safety Check vs. Boiler Service

Is a gas safety check the same as a boiler service?

When managing maintenance for your rental property, it’s important to know the difference between a gas safety check and a boiler service to fulfil your responsibilities effectively as a landlord.

gas safety check vs boiler service

What is a gas safety check?

 

A gas safety check ensures the safety of your entire gas system, not just boilers. Licensed Gas Safe engineers conduct these checks annually, looking for hazards, leaks, or issues with gas appliances, pipework, and flues. It’s a legal requirement for landlords.

 

During a gas safety check, engineers examine gas appliances like stoves, ovens, and heaters, ensuring they function correctly and meet safety standards. They also inspect gas pipework for leaks or faults and check ventilation systems for proper air circulation.

 

 

What does a boiler service involve?

 

A boiler service is specific maintenance for your boiler, going beyond safety checks in a gas safety check. Qualified gas-safe heating engineers conduct tests and inspections to ensure your boiler operates efficiently and reliably.

A typical boiler service includes cleaning internal components like the burner and heat exchanger to enhance performance. Engineers also check for wear and tear, replacing worn-out parts to prevent breakdowns. They adjust boiler controls and settings for optimal efficiency and reliability.

 

 

Which one do you need?

 

Whether you need a gas safety check or a boiler service depends on your needs. For overall safety of gas appliances, choose a gas safety check, especially important for landlords due to legal requirements. For maximising boiler efficiency and lifespan, a boiler service is ideal, preventing potential issues and costly repairs.

In conclusion, while both services aim to maintain a safe and functional heating system, they differ in scope. For landlords, a combination of both services at appropriate intervals is recommended for compliance. Ensure qualified engineers conduct these inspections for safety and efficiency.

For assistance for either of these services, gas-elec offers reliable support. Reach out to us at 0800 041 8614 or customer.services@gas-elec.co.uk for peace of mind and compliance assurance.

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Boiler thermostat

Boiler Tax? What is the impact on heating costs

Boiler prices are to go up in January 2024. The government has confirmed that the clean heat market mechanism will be going ahead.

14/03/2024 UPDATE

As reported by the BBC ‘Boiler tax delayed, from 1st April to next year’. The reasoning according to the government is to ‘give the industry more time to get ready’. 

 

Starting this year, in January 2024, the government has confirmed that the clean heat market mechanism will go ahead. The change means that boiler manufacturers, including Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal, and Baxi, have all announced they will introduce a new levy (or ‘boiler tax’) on customers buying oil and gas boilers. The goal is to increase the sales and installation of air and ground-source heat pumps in homes to work towards the aim of  ‘enhancing the UK’s self-sufficiency and generate more clean, affordable, homegrown power’. 

Boiler thermostat

What is the clean heat market mechanism? 

 

The Clean Heat Market Mechanism (CHMM) is a government scheme aimed at making homes more energy efficient and reducing the country’s energy consumption to meet carbon emission targets. 

 

Why have boiler manufacturers introduced a new levy or ‘Boiler Tax’? 

 

Boiler manufacturers have announced they will be introducing a levy on customers buying oil and gas boilers of around £120. The reason for this is because of the government’s introduction of the ‘clean heat market mechanism’. The proposal is that boiler manufacturers must match or substitute 4% of their boiler sales with heat pumps. Failing to do this, manufacturers will be fined £3000 for every heat pump they are short of. 

 The target for the UK government is to have 600k heat pumps installed annually by 2028; however, with changes in September 2023 to the ‘clean heat market mechanism’ including:

  • Deferring the ban on oil and LPG boilers from 2026 to 2035
  • Around 20% of homes will be exempt from having a heat pump due to the expense and not having a suitable home for one to be fitted.
  • Scrapping the requirement for landlords to raise the EPC rating of their properties to band level C by 2028

It means that it will be hard for manufacturers to reach these targets with these limitations. 

 

What does the price increase mean for you? 

 

Although this scheme is aimed at boiler manufacturers, this levy will ultimately affect homeowners across the UK. With 78% of UK residents having gas central heating, this means the possibility of an increase in price when it comes time to replace your boiler. This also means that lower-income households needing to replace their boiler may opt for a cheaper, less efficient boiler, resulting in more repairs and costs in the long run.

Gas-elec aims to continue to provide the best value for customers to get the right boiler for them at the best price.

The importance of regular boiler servicing: A landlord's checklist

The Importance of Regular Boiler Servicing: A Landlord’s Checklist

As a conscientious landlord, you’re likely well aware that maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment for your tenants is of utmost importance. One key aspect often overlooked is the regular servicing of the boiler. A well-maintained boiler not only provides reliable heating and hot water but also contributes to the overall safety and longevity of your property. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the crucial reasons why regular boiler servicing should be at the top of your landlord checklist.

1. Preventing Costly Breakdowns

One of the primary reasons to schedule regular boiler servicing is to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Boilers, like any system, undergo wear and tear over time. An annual service ensures that potential issues are identified and addressed before they escalate into major problems. By addressing minor faults early, you not only save on repair costs but also minimise disruptions for your tenants, fostering a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

2. Extending the Lifespan of Your Boiler

A well-maintained boiler is a reliable one, and annual servicing significantly extends its lifespan. Boilers are a significant investment, and replacing one can be a substantial expense. By incorporating annual servicing into your property management plan, you’re essentially safeguarding your investment.

3. Ensuring Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a concern for both landlords and tenants. Regular boiler servicing ensures that the system operates at peak efficiency. When a boiler is working optimally, it consumes less energy to produce the same amount of heat, resulting in lower energy bills for your tenants.

4. Enhancing Tenant Safety

Perhaps the most critical aspect of regular boiler servicing is ensuring the safety of your tenants. Faulty boilers can pose serious health and safety risks, including carbon monoxide leaks. This colourless and odourless gas can be lethal in high concentrations. Regular servicing involves thorough checks for any potential leaks or issues, allowing you to address them promptly. Providing a safe living environment is not only a legal obligation but also an ethical responsibility that contributes to the overall well-being of your tenants.

5. Compliance with Regulations

Landlords are subject to various regulations and legal obligations regarding property safety. Regular boiler servicing is often a requirement to comply with these regulations. Failure to meet these standards can result in fines, legal complications, and damage to your reputation as a landlord. By staying proactive and ensuring your boiler servicing is up to date, you demonstrate your commitment to meeting and exceeding the necessary safety standards. Find out more about how to stay compliant as a landlord.

Regular boiler servicing is an investment in the reliability, efficiency, and safety of your property. By adding it into your property management routine, you not only prevent costly breakdowns but also contribute to the overall satisfaction and well-being of your tenants.

Does your boiler need a service? Get yours booked in with gas-elec today or call 0800 041 8614.

EICR Rules: A guide for landlords

EICR Rules: A Guide for Landlords

We know as a landlord you have a lot to think about from keeping your rental properties safe and compliant to dealing with tenant concerns, so we wanted to help break down the reasoning behind needing an EICR (electrical installation condition report) and what you can expect to happen.

EICR Rules: A guide for landlords

What is an EICR for?

Let’s start with the basics. An EICR is like a health check for your property’s electrical system. It’s a thorough inspection that assesses the condition of your wiring, sockets, light fixtures, and any other electrical installations. Think of it as an MOT for your home’s electrical setup. EICR’s are a great way to identify defects, deterioration, damages and/or conditions which may indicate potential danger, as well as providing recommendations for improvement.

Is it a legal requirement to have an EICR?

Short answer: Yes. As of 1st June 2020, it’s a legal requirement for private landlords in England to have a valid EICR for their rental properties. Other parts of the UK might have slightly different regulations, so it’s always good to double-check with your local authorities. Find out more.

Can a landlord be fined for not having an EICR?

Unfortunately, yes. Ignoring the EICR requirement can lead to fines of up to £30,000. Ouch, right? Compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about keeping your property and your tenants safe.

Who is responsible for the EICR test?

The responsibility falls on your shoulders as a landlord. You need to hire a qualified and registered electrician to carry out the inspection.

What would fail on an EICR?

Common issues include faulty wiring with damaged sockets, switches & lights as well as outdated fuse boxes. The report will categorize findings as either ‘C1’ (danger present), ‘C2’ (potentially dangerous), or ‘C3’ (improvement recommended). Don’t worry; your electrician will explain everything in the report.

How do I prepare for an EICR?

Clear access to all electrical installations is a good start. Make sure the electrician can easily reach fuse boxes, sockets, and other key areas. It’s also a good idea to inform your tenants in advance, just so they know what’s happening and can make any necessary arrangements.

How long does an EICR take to do?

The duration can vary depending on the size and complexity of your property. On average, you’re looking at a few hours, but it’s a small investment for the safety of your property and the people living in it.

Stay compliant, keep it safe, and happy renting!

Need an EICR carried out for one of your rental properties? Get booked in with gas-elec today. We have a nationwide coverage of engineers so you don’t need to worry about where your property is located, and with over 26 years experience you can have peace of mind that you will be fully compliant. As well as EICRs, we also carry out anything from gas checks to installing CO and fire alarms. Check out our website to see how we can keep you compliant.

5 ways to maintain your boiler this winter

5 ways to maintain your boiler this winter

With the thought of winter just around the corner, the blankets make their way back out and the summer clothes begin to get pushed to the back of your wardrobe. You start to contemplate the idea of switching your heating on, but often leave it until the last minute in hopes of saving some pennies with the rising costs. When you do finally cave in to turning on your boiler and run into problems, leaving you waiting on an engineer at the busiest time of year. Here are some ways you can avoid running into unexpected problems with your boiler and heating this winter.

Have your boiler serviced

Having your boiler serviced is a sure way to provide you with peace of mind in the long run. A boiler service makes for a more efficient & reliable boiler, providing lower energy costs as well as avoiding costly repairs. Regular services means your boiler is likely to last longer, meaning you won’t have to fork out a large upfront cost for a new boiler.

gas safety check vs boiler service

Bleed your radiators and check the boiler pressure

Bleeding your radiators and topping up the boiler pressure is a simple and effective way to make your home warmer and reduce your energy bills. By removing the air pockets from your radiators, it allows the whole radiator to get warm instead of only parts of it. You may have been putting your heating on at a higher temperature to warm your house, but by bleeding your radiators you can turn the temperature down as more heat is being spread throughout the radiator. It is good practice to bleed your radiators once a year. Checking your boiler pressure is also a key factor to keeping your boiler running to full capacity and efficiency. If the pressure is too high there’s an increased chance of leaks happening in the system and if the pressure is too low the system won’t work as well. Learn how to bleed your own radiators.

Have your water pipes insulated

Having your water pipes insulated is a great money saver as it reduces heat loss and raises your water temperature. This is a relatively inexpensive way to reduce your overall monthly energy costs and have a warmer home.

5 ways to maintain your boiler this winter

Run your heating in the Autumn

We all wait until the very last minute to turn our heating on but doing this can leave you waiting on an available engineer if there are any faults. Putting your heating on earlier than planned can give you time to check and resolve any issues before the cold snap hits and you really need a working boiler. You are also more likely to get booked in with an engineer outside of the busy period as well as avoiding call out fees.

Take care of those draughts

Once you have your boiler up and running and heating your house for the winter, you don’t want to lose all of that heat through unnecessary draughts. Check all of your windows and doors and ensure you have adequate loft insulation.

Need a boiler service? gas-elec have qualified engineers nationwide. Get booked in today or call us on 08000418614

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