Installing a new combi boiler can be a daunting task as it is, so it’s not surprising that many homeowners don’t think to look at the relevant laws and regulations before they start. It may not seem like a big deal, but these guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of you and your family; cutting corners to get the job done more quickly only puts you all at risk. For the safest and most secure combi boiler installation possible, it’s essential that you follow installation regulations.

Whether you plan on installing a combi boiler yourself or hiring a professional fitter with plumbing experience to get the job done, you will need at least a basic idea of just exactly what regulations need to be met before anybody gets started. We’ve listed below the three primary pieces of legislation that need to be adhered to – but remember, these guidelines here are NOT exhaustive, and should be researched thoroughly beforehand, especially if you are doing the installation yourself (see DIY: How to Install a Combi Boiler). Complete guidelines can be purchased from the Government website, or alternatively from various electric/plumbing colleges as part of their basic course packs.

Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998

The most important rule regarding combi boiler installation under this piece of legislation is that all fittings need to be completed by a Gas Safe registered professional. ‘Fitting’ is classed as any kind of work that includes the installation, maintenance and/or altering of pipe work (including valves), regulators or meters, or any apparatus or appliances that are in some way or another designed to supply heat, light or gas for a specific household purpose.

British Standards 7671 IET

Under British Standard guidelines, the IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) outlines some specific rules regarding any fitting or installation that involves electricity. Of course, not all combi boiler installations will involve electrical components, so these rules might not apply to you. If you’re installing an electric combi boiler though, you’ll need to comply to these regulations to reduce the risk of electric shock or of appliances overheating. The IET standards recommend using lower voltages where possible and caution against wire-clusters or loose, exposed copper wiring.

Part P of UK Building Regulations

The latest amendments of this statue came in 2010, so be sure you are checking the latest guidelines (rather than the 2006 version) if you’re installing your new combi boiler yourself. Generally these regulations are merely recommendations for the best and most reasonable provisions against many kinds of danger (specifically fire and physical injury) for combi boiler installers. They are also listed by various sub-categories, each of which relates to a specific area of danger that you might be confronted with during installation, as outlined below:

1. Section A: Structure – concerns the strength and security of the building, specifically the areas where piping or wiring needs replacing or where the combi boiler is going to be installed.
2. Section B: Fire Safety – ensures appropriate clothing and eye-wear is worn for installation and caution always taken when first lighting the new boiler.
3. Section C: Site Preparation – recommends clearing away clutter and moving out your family for a few days, if necessary; to ensure installation is completed with minimal fuss and disruption.
4. Section F: Ventilation – ensures the flue for your new combi boiler leads safely and securely outside to expel exhaust gases.

Remember, these are only the most important rules and have been given only the most basic outline to help you begin. For specific areas of concern always look up the necessary laws and regulations in detail. If you still have reservations about your combi boiler installation you can always get in contact with your Local Authority’s Building Control Department, who can provide free information and advice where necessary.