What Home Heating Factors Should You Consider When Buying a New House?

September 1, 2022

Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, buying a new home is an exciting time. However, before you sign on the dotted line, there are a number of factors you should consider so as to avoid any unexpected expenses.

While buyers are usually quite good in terms of asking key questions, the heating system is often forgotten.

Although it is the seller’s responsibility to inform you of any issues, some people will attempt to disclose as little information as possible. Due to this, it is important to take time to learn about the about any issues as this will reduce the risk of any large, unforeseen costs.

Here are three home heating factors you should consider when buying a new house.

The Boiler

Firstly, it is important to check the boiler. You should find out how old it is, when it was last serviced and if it was serviced by a qualified technician. Boilers should be serviced at least once a year as this will help to identify any problems before they become more serious.

Ask to see evidence such as servicing reports – these should be left by the technician who completed the work. If there are any issues and you suspect the boiler may need replaced before you can move in, you should negotiate a price through your solicitor.

Oil Tank

If the new property is heated by oil, you should ensure that you take a walk outside and inspect the oil tank for any damage. It is important to check the condition of your oil tank on a regular basis, as this will ensure you notice and correct any issues before they pose a serious problem.

You should take a look for signs of rust, deep scratches or damp patches.  Additionally, you should consider where the tank is placed, as plastic tanks need to be situated on a concrete base to ensure they are fully supported.

Radiators

Finally, you should also remember to check the condition of the radiators located throughout the house. If they are in a poor condition, they will affect the overall system. This means that even if the boiler is working well, the quality of the overall system will remain poor.

While the heating is on, check that each radiator is emitting heat. If you notice any cold spots, you should note these down as this may indicate corrosion or limescale build-up which will require a deep clean.

If you do find that your dream house has a heating system which needs repaired or replaced, you should obtain a quote which can then be discussed with the seller.