How Much Does A Plumber Charge To Install A Boiler?

The national average for a plumber to install a boiler (labour alone) typically ranges between £600 and £1,500. While a straightforward “swap” of a combi boiler can often be completed in a single day, more complex system conversions or relocations can drive these costs higher. 

In 2026, UK homeowners and landlords must also account for regional price variations, with London and the South East often commanding a premium due to higher operational overheads for Gas Safe registered engineers.

How Much Does A Plumber Charge For A Simple Boiler Swap?

A plumber’s charge for a simple boiler swap usually falls between £600 and £1,000 for the labour component of the job. This refers to a “like-for-like” replacement where the new unit is fitted in the exact same location as the old one, and the existing pipework remains largely compatible. 

In this scenario, a heating engineer can often finish the work within four to six hours. This price typically includes the removal and safe disposal of your old appliance, the commissioning of the new system, and the filing of the necessary Building Regulations compliance certificate. 

However, if the flue needs to be upgraded to meet current safety standards, you may see a slight increase in the total quote.

What Factors Increase The Cost Of Boiler Installation?

The factors that increase the cost of boiler installation range from the physical location of the unit to the complexity of the hydraulic system. If you are moving your boiler from the kitchen to the attic, the additional labour required for running new gas pipes and water lines can add £500 to £800 to the bill. Other significant cost drivers include:

• System Conversions: Changing from a conventional (regular) boiler to a modern combi system involves removing old tanks and re-piping the house.
• Flue Routing: If the engineer needs to install a vertical flue through the roof rather than a horizontal one through a wall, the scaffolding and material costs will rise.
• System Cleansing: A professional powerflush to remove magnetic sludge is often required by manufacturers to validate your warranty, adding roughly £300 to £500 to the project.

How Does Your Location Affect UK Boiler Fitting Prices?

Your location affects UK boiler fitting prices significantly, with the “North-South divide” still very much in play for 2026 labour rates. In cities like London, Reading, or Brighton, a heating engineer’s day rate can be as high as £400 to £600, whereas in Northern England, Scotland, or Wales, you might find qualified professionals charging closer to £250 to £350 per day. 

This discrepancy is largely driven by the cost of living, business insurance premiums, and travel time within congested metropolitan areas. Landlords with portfolios across different regions should be prepared for these fluctuations when budgeting for annual maintenance or emergency replacements.

What Is Included In A Professional Installation Quote?

The items included in a professional installation quote should be clearly itemised to avoid any “hidden” surprises on the final invoice. A comprehensive quote from a reputable company will usually cover the Gas Safe labour, the cost of the boiler unit, the flue kit, and a magnetic system filter to protect the new heat exchanger. 

Furthermore, it should include the cost of a chemical flush and the addition of inhibitor fluid to the central heating circuit. Ensure your quote also mentions the registration of the manufacturer’s warranty and the provision of a Landlord Gas Safety Record (CP12) if the property is being rented out.

Need A New Boiler Quote?

Whether you are a landlord managing a rental property or a homeowner looking to lower your carbon footprint, our team is here to help you navigate the costs of a new installation.

Request a new boiler quote from Boilers 2 Go to compare the latest A-rated models from top brands like Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, and Ideal. Our experts will assess your hot water demand and radiator count to recommend the perfect kilowatt (kW) output for your property, ensuring you don’t overpay for power you don’t need or suffer from low flow rates.

FAQs

Is a plumber the same as a heating engineer for boiler installs?

Not necessarily. While many plumbers handle general water pipes, only a Gas Safe registered engineer is legally allowed to work on gas boilers in the UK. Always check their ID card to ensure they are qualified for “piped gas” before allowing them to start work.

How much extra does a smart thermostat installation cost?

If you are already getting a new boiler fitted, adding a smart controller like Hive, Nest, or a Vaillant vSMART usually costs between £150 and £250 including the device. The labour is often discounted because the engineer is already working on the boiler’s electrical connections.

Do I have to pay for the removal of my old boiler?

Most professional quotes include the “decommissioning and disposal” of the old unit. However, some independent plumbers may charge an extra £50 to £100 for waste disposal fees, so always verify this during the quoting stage.

Does the price change if I have an LPG or Oil system?

Yes, labour for LPG and Oil boiler installations is often slightly higher, typically adding £100 to £200 to the service. These systems require specialised qualifications and different safety components compared to standard natural gas appliances.

Are weekend or emergency installations more expensive?

Absolutely. If your boiler breaks down on a Friday night and you need a replacement installed on a Saturday, expect to pay a “premium rate” for labour, which can be 50% to 100% higher than standard weekday prices.