When you’re budgeting for maintenance, boilers are one of the bigger costs. You’re legally responsible for servicing and ensuring the boiler runs properly. If it’s a gas boiler, it must be checked annually and a copy of the gas safety certificate given to the tenant prior to them moving in. Tenants are in charge of its day-to-day operation, so it’s important they are given clear instructions on exactly how to re-pressurise it and when to call for help.
A boiler should last around 10-15 years and to help keep it in good working order while fixing costs, it’s worth considering insurance or a service contract, where you pay a monthly premium in return for cover for call outs, repairs, parts and labour, as well as the annual service.
When it comes to deciding whether to repair or replace, in addition to the financial consideration, there’s the question of what’s going to be more environmentally friendly and if it saves the tenant money on their heating bills – making it easier from them to afford the rent.
It may be that the boiler is still under warranty, so there is no cost to repair it or it’s in good condition, but just needs a new part which is easy and cheap to fix. However, if the boiler is near it’s ‘end of life’ it may be better to invest repair monies of a few hundred pounds towards a new one costing £1,500 to £3,000 to save future break downs and help to increase safety for tenants.
There is some good news if your current boiler is getting on in years. In a move intended to help both consumers and the planet, European environment ministers are currently proposing that legislation is introduced forcing manufacturers to make large home appliances that last longer and are easier to fix. And with the environment very much at the forefront of global plans, we can be hopeful about this becoming law.
If we manage your property, you can be confident we’re taking the best possible care of your boiler, with trusted contractors and an experienced team to advise you when you might need to consider replacing it. To find out more about our full management service, call into your local branch or get in touch via our website.
Sources:
https://www.homeserveheating.co.uk/news/boiler-guides/how-long-do-boilers-last
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-46797396
https://www.plumbcare.com/blog/2016/12/repair-or-replace-which-is-best-for-your-boiler
The Reeds Rains Content Marketing Team
