Get three quotes for a new boiler and you’ll often get three very different prices. Usually that’s not because one firm is cheap and another’s a rip-off. It’s because they’re not quoting for the same job. A proper boiler quote should spell out the boiler, the flue, the system clean, the filter, the controls, the paperwork and the guarantee, so you can compare like with like. We give fixed, written quotes for homes across Bristol and Bath, and you can see how on our boiler installations page. Here’s what to look for, and what to ask before you sign.
Was the quote based on a survey?
This comes first. A quote given over the phone or from a few photos is a guess. It might be right. It might not.
A proper survey means someone has looked at where the boiler is, the flue route, your gas supply, your water pressure and the condition of your radiators. That’s how you get a fixed price rather than one that grows on the day. There’s more on this in do I need a boiler survey.
The boiler itself
The quote should name the make, the model and the output in kW. “A-rated combi” isn’t enough. You want to know exactly which boiler you’re getting so you can look it up, check the guarantee and compare it against the other quotes.
The installation work
Look for each of these listed:
- removing and disposing of the old boiler
- a new flue, and any flue extensions or roof kits
- any changes to the gas pipe, especially if it needs upsizing for the new boiler
- condensate pipework to a drain
- any changes to the heating or hot water pipework
- taking out cylinders and tanks if you’re converting to a combi
Protecting the new boiler
This is where cheap quotes often cut corners.
There should be a system clean, either a chemical flush or a powerflush depending on the state of your system. And there should be a magnetic filter on the return pipe to the boiler. Without these, the new boiler is being plumbed straight into years of old sludge, and manufacturers can refuse guarantee claims if the system wasn’t cleaned.
In hard water areas, like Bristol and Bath, a scale reducer on the cold supply to a combi is also worth asking about.
Controls
In England, every new gas boiler has to have time and temperature controls. A new combi needs at least one extra energy-saving measure too, such as a smart thermostat with automation and optimisation, or weather compensation.
The quote should say which thermostat or controls you’re getting. If it doesn’t mention controls at all, ask.
The paperwork
The installer should register the boiler with the manufacturer, notify Building Control and give you a Building Regulations compliance certificate afterwards. They should also complete the commissioning checklist in the boiler manual.
Check the installer is Gas Safe registered, or OFTEC for oil, and look them up on the register. Ours is Gas Safe 229864.
The guarantee
Make sure the quote spells out the manufacturer’s guarantee, how many years and on what. It’s usually the boiler’s parts and labour, not the whole system.
Ask what you have to do to keep it valid. Almost all guarantees need the boiler serviced every year by a Gas Safe engineer, and some longer ones are only available through accredited installers. As Worcester Bosch accredited installers, we can offer up to 12 years on selected models.
Ask about the installer’s own workmanship guarantee too, separate from the boiler’s. Ours is 12 months on the installation work.
Price, payment and timing
The quote should give you a total price, including VAT, and how long it’s valid for. It should say how payment works, and whether there’s a deposit.
It should also give you an idea of how long the job will take and how long you’ll be without heating and hot water.
Comparing quotes in Bristol and Bath
The biggest gaps we see between quotes round here are usually about the system clean and the flue. A cheap quote for a Clifton flat or a Bath townhouse might not have allowed for a vertical flue, a long condensate run or a heavily sludged system. Get it in writing and ask the question.
Frequently asked questions
Why do boiler quotes vary so much?
Mostly because they’re not quoting for the same job. One might include a powerflush, a filter, a smart thermostat and a longer guarantee. Another might leave all that out. Lay the quotes side by side and check each line. For an idea of typical prices, see how much does a new boiler cost.
Is a new boiler covered by a warranty?
Yes. Every new boiler comes with a manufacturer’s guarantee, and the length depends on the make and model. To keep it, the boiler must be registered after installation and serviced every year. On top of that, we guarantee our own installation work for 12 months.
Should I pay a deposit?
It’s common for installers to ask for a deposit, especially if they’re ordering a boiler specially. Make sure the amount is reasonable and that you have it in writing. If you’re paying by finance, the terms will be set out in the finance agreement.
Want a quote you can compare?
Ring us on 01275 400 687 or get in touch online. We’ll do a free survey and give you a fixed, itemised quote.