COST GUIDES
Moving a boiler: Cost breakdown 2026
Updated 06/26
Discover the average cost of moving a boiler in your property, as well as cost-saving considerations to make before you begin the project.
Fast Facts
The average cost to move a boiler is around £800
Costs vary depending on factors like the type of boiler and how far you want to move it
For instance, the cost of moving a boiler from upstairs to downstairs is approximately £1000
Switching to a new boiler in a different location costs around £2,650 (based on a mid-range combi boiler)
Most jobs take between one to two days
How much does it cost to move a boiler in 2026?
| Boiler costs | Cost + VAT (range low-high) | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Moving existing boiler | £600 - £1000 | £800 |
| Extension flue pipe/flue bends (Per metre) | £75 - £125 | £100 |
| Magnetic filter | £150 - £225 | £175 |
| Controls | £100 - £650 | £400 |
| Pipework and fittings | £400 - £600 | £500 |
| Replacing a combi boiler with a new one, in a different location (mid-range) | - | £2,650 |
| Last updated: May 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
The average cost to move an existing boiler is between £600 - £1000.
However, every home is different, and there are a lot of factors that affect the cost of moving a boiler. Let's get into it.
Average cost to move a combi boiler
Combi boilers are the easiest systems to move (especially if you have no water tank), and are therefore the lowest cost option:
On average, moving a combi boiler costs £600
That said, there may be costs for pipework, installing the flue and 'making good' the space. More on that later.
Labour costs to move a boiler
Most engineers will quote you a fixed rate for the entire boiler move. However, it's handy to know the average hourly rate in case a job overruns:
The average hourly rate for a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer to move a boiler is around £40 - £60 per hour
However, exact rates will vary depending on the individual tradesperson, their experience and the complexity of the job.
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Cost to move a boiler: What's involved?
Now we've gone through the overall costs for the job, let's drill down to the key components involved to give you the full picture:
Flue costs:
Adding an extension flue pipe so it can reach a safe area outside, and creating a new hole for the flue, is essential
It must meet all Boiler Flue Regulations
Costs £75 - £125 per metre
Pipework costs:
Involves connecting the condensate pipe to a waste pipe, and connecting the boiler to existing pipework in your home
Costs £400 - £600
Gas connection costs:
Rerouting gas pipes isn’t cheap, and if you’re moving to a room without a gas pipe (such as a garage), this will add to the price
Costs £45 - £85 per metre
Magnetic filter costs:
These essential components extract debris from the water in your pipes, which reduces rust and maintains the long-term health of your pipes
Costs £150 - £225
Surprised by the labour costs involved? Moving a boiler is more than simply relocating the unit. Your installer will need to disconnect and remove the boiler, reroute pipework, drill new flue and pipe openings, reconnect the system, and carry out safety checks and testing. Older, heavier boilers may also need two engineers to move safely.
Factors affecting the cost to move a boiler
As we’ve touched upon already, to calculate the cost of moving your boiler, you'll need to factor in:
The type of boiler you're moving – Standard boilers cost more to move than combi boilers
Its current location and where you want to move it to – The greater the distance, the higher the cost
Project complexity – The labour cost involved will be higher for a more complex job, such as one that involves installing lots of new pipework to the new boiler location
Wondering where you can move a boiler to? So long as the location meets gas safety and building regulation requirements, there are plenty of spots. From kitchens, utility rooms, and airing cupboards, to bedrooms, bathrooms, lofts, and garages.
Hidden costs to watch out for
There are also some hidden costs to account for when you’re budgeting to move your boiler.
1. Draining the system
As part of the project, draining your existing heating system will need to be done, which will add to the labour time (and cost).
At the same time, it may be practical to flush the system to remove any existing sludge for better performance. This costs more but can improve efficiency, meaning it pays for itself over time.
The average cost for a chemical flush will range between £350 - £800
2. Making good
That big hole where your old boiler pipework went outside will need to be filled.
Plastering, rendering, skimming and decorating should all be considered.
3. Type of floor
If you have concrete or tiled floors, then pipework can be run through walls and the ceiling, which adds to labour costs and can increase the cost of materials if the route is less direct.
If installing a boiler in the attic, you may need scaffolding too.
4. Thermostat
You can also opt to add additional control, such as a new thermostat like Hive.
These cost around £238 for materials and labour. This is a relatively small cost for the extra control and improvement in energy efficiency.
5. Carbon monoxide alarm
Last but not least, if you don’t have one already, be sure to get a carbon monoxide alarm.
They cost around £20 and are literal lifesavers.
Is moving a boiler worth the cost?
There are several reasons why homeowners choose to move their boiler:
Frees up valuable space (in kitchens, cupboards, or utility areas)
Makes way for renovations (such as extensions, loft conversions, or new kitchens)
Improves the look of your home (by moving the boiler out of sight)
Potentially increases hot water speed (by positioning the boiler in a more optimal position)
Is your boiler no longer covered under warranty, not compliant with the latest regulations, or more than ten years old? It might be wise to consider replacing the boiler as part of the move. Newer boilers can be over 90% efficient, while some older models may be less than 50% efficient.
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Decided you're going to upgrade to a new boiler as well as move it? From boiler replacement costs to tips on planning for the installation, we've got you covered.
FAQs
How long does it take to move a boiler?
In general, it only takes around one to two days to move a boiler, depending on how far you are moving it. We recommend this be done in warmer months, as these projects can drag over to a second day unexpectedly, and this way you won’t be without heat when you need it most.
Can you move a boiler from downstairs to upstairs?
Yes, you can move a boiler from downstairs to upstairs (and vice versa), but it's a big job. If you have a conventional gravity-fed system, the water tank must be positioned above the boiler. This may require relocating the water tank to the loft, which can add considerably to the overall cost.
How much does it cost to move a boiler from upstairs to downstairs?
The cost of moving a boiler from upstairs to downstairs is approximately £1000. Moving a boiler from upstairs to downstairs is usually one of the more expensive relocation jobs. It often requires additional pipework, flue extensions, and lifting floorboards to connect the boiler to the existing system.
Should I move my old boiler or replace it?
If your boiler is over 10 years old, out of warranty, or becoming unreliable, replacing it while relocating it could make more sense. Newer boilers are typically much more energy efficient and may help reduce your heating bills.
However, if your boiler is relatively new and in good working order, moving it without replacing it makes sense.
Do I need planning permission to move a boiler?
Planning permission is not usually required to move a boiler. However, the installation must comply with Building Regulations and be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Is a condensing boiler better than a combi?
A combi boiler is a type of condensing boiler. The best option depends on your home's size, hot water demand, and existing heating system.
How complicated is it to move a boiler?
Moving a boiler can be a big job, particularly if it's being relocated to a different floor or room. The work will involve rerouting pipework, moving the flue, and making electrical connections.
Is relocating a boiler a big job?
The complexity of moving a boiler depends on how far the boiler is being moved and whether new pipework, flues, or electrical connections are required.
Where should you not put a boiler?
A boiler should not be installed in locations that lack adequate ventilation, access for servicing, or protection from extreme temperatures. Your installer can advise on suitable locations.
What is the best month to replace a boiler?
Spring and summer are often the best times to replace a boiler, as heating engineers tend to be less busy and you're less likely to need your heating during the work.
Can I move my boiler to the garage?
Yes, you can move a boiler to a garage. However, the garage will need suitable frost protection and insulation to prevent the boiler and pipework from freezing.
Is it illegal to move a boiler?
No, it's not illegal to move a boiler. However, any gas boiler work must be carried out by a Gas Safe-registered engineer to comply with safety regulations.
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