New boiler or heating system: how to compare quotes

Replacing your boiler or upgrading a central heating system is a significant job that involves more than just picking a price. The detail in a quote can make the difference between a smooth installation and unexpected costs or issues later. Here’s what to look for so you’re not left guessing why one quote is higher, or what you’re actually getting for your money.

Check what is specified in every quote

A clear, detailed quote allows you to compare on a like-for-like basis and avoid costly surprises. Ask every heating engineer to specify these points in writing:

• Boiler make and model or heat pump system: The brand and exact model should be listed, not just a general description. For heat pumps, ask for the full system specification. This helps you compare efficiency, reliability and compatibility with your home.
• Controls: Smart or programmable controls can make your heating much more convenient and efficient. Quotes should state exactly what is included, such as wireless thermostats or smart controls, as not all systems come with these as standard.
• Flue: Boiler flues are a legal requirement and different properties may need different types. The quote should make clear what type of flue is included and whether any extra work for flue routing is needed.
• Magnetic filter: These help protect your boiler from sludge and can prolong its life. Some installers include a filter as standard, others make it an extra. If one quote includes this and another does not, make sure you know why.
• System flush: A power flush cleans out the old system to help your new boiler run efficiently. Not all quotes include this, so check if it’s listed and whether it’s a full power flush or just a chemical flush.
• Cylinder (if required): If you need a new hot water cylinder, it should be specified by type and size. Otherwise, confirm if your existing one is being reused.
• Radiators: Check whether replacement or new radiators are included, and if so, how many and what type. If they are not included, clarify whether your current ones are being re-used.
• Disposal of old equipment: Safe disposal of your old boiler, cylinder, or radiators is sometimes included, sometimes not. If it’s not specified, you could be left with unwanted items.
• Commissioning: This means the installer will test and set up the new system and confirm it works safely. It should be clearly listed as part of the service.
• Registration: New gas boilers must be notified to building control, usually by the installer. Manufacturer registration is separate and often required for warranty. Ask who will handle these steps and get confirmation in writing.

You can see which central heating installation and heat pump services are offered on individual heating engineer listings on Annuvell Local. Use these details to compare before requesting quotes.

Compare like for like: what’s included and what’s not

A common source of confusion is why one quote seems to include more than another. For example, one installer might list a magnetic filter and smart controls, while another offers a lower price but these are absent or only available at extra cost. To avoid comparing apples with oranges:

• Go through each quote line by line and highlight differences in what is included. Sometimes a lower price simply means fewer items or less labour.
• Ask for explanations if something is left out or presented as optional. For example, a quote might not mention a power flush, or include it only at extra cost.
• Clarify the specification for all equipment. If you see only generic descriptions, ask for models and brands.
• Beware of quotes that seem unusually low: check if they have skipped steps such as disposal, commissioning, or registering with building control. These omissions can lead to extra charges later.

If you use the Annuvell Local compare tool, you can see comparison facts for up to four businesses side by side, with each fact labelled to show whether it’s verified, provided by the business, or not stated. This can help you spot differences quickly, but always check the written quote for the final detail.

Ask about warranty length and registration

A new boiler or heating system is a major investment, so the warranty offered matters. The length and terms of the warranty can vary significantly:

• Manufacturer warranty: Often only valid if the installer registers your boiler with the manufacturer within a set period, and if you keep up with annual servicing. Ask if the installer will handle registration or if you need to do it yourself.
• Installer guarantee: Some installers offer their own guarantee on workmanship, which is separate from the manufacturer’s warranty. Ask how long this lasts and what it covers (labour, call-outs, parts, etc).
• Paperwork: Get confirmation in writing that the warranty has been registered, and keep all documents and receipts in case you need to claim later.
• Annual servicing: Check if the installer offers an annual service or reminder, as this is often a condition for keeping the manufacturer’s warranty valid.

On Annuvell Local, warranty details may appear in the business’s description, but you should always confirm in writing what is included with your quote.

Insist on a proper home survey before accepting any quote

A quote given without a visit to your home is only a rough estimate. Heating systems need to be matched to the specifics of your property: its size, insulation, existing pipework and radiators, and your hot water needs. A good installer will want to see all of this before quoting:

• A home survey helps the engineer assess what size and type of boiler or heat pump you need, and what extras (like new radiators or a power flush) are required.
• If a business offers to quote without visiting, ask how they have calculated the requirements. Quotes based only on your description can miss hidden problems or lead to extra charges later.
• A home survey is also your chance to ask questions about the installation process and raise any concerns about access, disruption, or special requirements.

When requesting quotes on Annuvell Local, you send a description of your job, but you should always insist that the business arranges a survey before finalising the price.

Understand timing, disruption and payment terms

Installing a new boiler or heating system is disruptive, so check the details before you agree to anything:

• Timing: Ask when the work can start, how long it is expected to take, and whether you’ll be left without heating or hot water at any point. If you have special needs (such as young children or someone with medical needs), discuss these in advance.
• Disruption: Find out what rooms will be affected, whether floors or carpets will be lifted, and if any redecorating will be needed afterwards. Ask if the installer will reinstate everything as found or if a decorator is needed.
• Payment: Most reputable installers will not ask for full payment up front. Payment is usually due on commissioning (when the system is tested and handed over). Always get the payment terms in writing, including any deposits and when the final balance is due.
• Cooling-off period: If you agree the contract at home, by phone or online, you usually have a 14-day cooling-off period. However, if you ask for urgent work to start within this period, you can still be charged for work already carried out.
• Consumer rights: Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, the service must be carried out with reasonable care and skill, within a reasonable time, and for a reasonable price if not agreed in advance. Keep a copy of your contract and all correspondence in case of later disputes.

You can find more advice on how to compare quotes fairly and how to choose a heating engineer to help you interpret responses and make practical arrangements.

Double-check credentials and communication

A well-drafted quote is only part of the picture. Before choosing any installer:

• Check that the business is Gas Safe registered if you are installing a gas boiler. You can ask to see their Gas Safe ID and check it on the register.
• Confirm contact details. On Annuvell Local, every listing shows checked contact details and flags unreachable websites or unverified phone numbers.
• Keep all communication in writing where possible, especially when agreeing specifications, timings and payment terms.
• Ask who will be responsible for notifying building control of the installation. This is required for new gas boilers and is usually done by the installer, but don’t assume.
• Make sure you know how to contact the installer after the job is completed, in case you need aftercare or to arrange annual servicing.

Next steps

Request quotes from heating engineers near you and insist on a survey first. Use Annuvell Local’s heating engineers page to find businesses in your area, compare their services, and send your job description to several at once. Take the time to read each quote carefully, ask for missing details in writing, and do not be rushed into a decision. For more help, see how to compare quotes fairly and how to choose a heating engineer before you commit.