If you have recently moved house or are about to move it is well worth having the central heating system checked out.
The standard Home Buyers Survey does not check the central heating system so it is important for you to make some checks when viewing the property to make sure the heating or hot water is working.
- Firstly establish what type of system is fitted in the house. Is it a combination or a conventional system? If it is a combination boiler then as soon as the hot water is turned on the boiler should fire up. If it is a conventional boiler then there will be a hot water cylinder somewhere in the house usually in the airing cupboard or loft.
- Having hot water and heating when you move in is essential- hot water for cleaning and heating to warm up the house. So check the system is working.
- Ask where the stopcock is – then at least you can turn off the water if there is a problem.
- Check all the taps are working.
- Check all radiators are working.
- Look for signs of leaks or water damage on floors and ceilings.
- Ask for the instruction booklet on the boiler to be left at the house.
- Ask when the system was last serviced.
Alternatively, why not have an independent survey of the central heating system.
When buying a new home Range Heating can check the gas and heating system for you and give you a report advising you on the state of the system and any likely costs you will face. You can use this information to budget for your new home or to go back to the vendors and negotiate a discount if there is a lot of money needing to be spent immediately on the heating system. Either way it’s best to have as much information as possible when making such a large purchase and when you and your family will be living in the property you want to know it’s a safe place.
For more information and advice, call Range Heating on 07872 105 094
