Is Annual Boiler Servicing a Legal Requirement in the UK? And How Often Should You Do It?

Boiler servicing is something many people put off, often until a fault appears. But keeping up with regular checks can protect your heating system, your wallet and even your legal standing. This article explains whether boiler servicing is legally required in the UK, how often it should be done, and who needs to take action. 

Is annual boiler servicing a legal requirement in the UK? 

If you’re a homeowner, servicing your boiler every year is not a legal requirement. However, it is highly recommended. Almost all boiler manufacturers state that annual servicing is needed to keep your warranty valid. In some cases, your home insurance might expect the same. It can also be a requirement of some leasehold or property servicing agreements (if you own a flat that is in a block, for example). 

If you are a landlord, the rules are very different. Landlords are legally required to have all gas appliances, including boilers, checked once every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is part of your obligations under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations. Some landlords choose to carry out the boiler service at the same time as the annual gas safety check, which keeps everything on one schedule. These checks must be carried out by a registered engineer, and you need to give your tenants a copy of the gas safety record. 

How often should you service your boiler? 

The standard advice is to service your boiler once every 12 months (which is the minimum legal requirement if you are a landlord). This keeps it running efficiently and helps spot problems before they become serious. It also reduces the chance of breakdowns in winter, which is when boilers tend to be under the most pressure. 

If you let the service slide, you might notice your system starting to struggle. In the long run, this can lead to higher energy bills and shorter boiler lifespan. If your boiler is quite old or you rely on it heavily, such as in a busy family home or a commercial setting, more frequent checks may be a good idea. For example, we’ve worked with café owners who have their boiler serviced twice a year because even a day without hot water would be a problem. 

Don’t leave it to chance. Book your annual boiler service with Onyx Solutions. Whether you're a landlord or a homeowner, we’ll keep you compliant and your system running smoothly.