Who Pays for Boiler Service?

When it comes to boiler service, a routine check-up performed by a qualified technician to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. Also known as annual boiler maintenance, it's not just a recommendation—it's often a legal requirement for landlords and a smart move for homeowners. But here’s the real question: who pays for boiler service? The answer isn’t always simple, and it depends on whether you own your home, rent it, or have a warranty.

If you’re a homeowner, you’re typically on the hook for the full cost. That means paying for the engineer’s time, parts if needed, and any follow-up checks. A standard service in the UK usually runs between £80 and £120, depending on location and boiler type. But if you rent, things change. Under UK law, landlords are responsible for maintaining gas appliances, including boilers. That means they must arrange and pay for an annual gas safety certificate, a legal document proving the boiler is safe to use, issued after a qualified engineer’s inspection. If your landlord hasn’t scheduled your service in over a year, they’re breaking the law. And if you’re on a boiler warranty or protection plan—like those offered by some energy suppliers—you might get one free service a year, but often only if you use their approved engineer.

There’s also the matter of what’s actually included. A proper boiler service checklist, a set of standard inspections performed during a professional boiler maintenance visit covers checking the gas pressure, cleaning the heat exchanger, testing safety devices, inspecting flues, and looking for carbon monoxide leaks. It’s not just a quick glance—it’s a full diagnostic. Skipping it can lead to higher bills, breakdowns in winter, or even dangerous gas leaks. Some people try to cut corners and DIY, but gas work is illegal for unqualified people in the UK. Even if you’re handy, you can’t legally service a boiler yourself.

So who pays? Homeowners pay themselves. Renters? Their landlord should. Warranty holders? Often covered, but with limits. And if you’re buying a new home or moving into a rental, always ask for proof of the last service. A boiler that hasn’t been serviced in two years isn’t just risky—it’s a red flag. The posts below give you the real details: what’s checked during a service, how much it actually costs, how to spot if your boiler’s due, and whether you can push back if your landlord won’t act. No fluff. Just what you need to know to stay safe and avoid surprise bills.

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