Quick Answer
Labour-only boiler fitting in the UK typically costs £500 to £900 for a straightforward like-for-like swap, £600 to £1,000 for a like-for-like system or regular boiler swap, and £800 to £1,500 for converting a regular boiler to a combi or relocating the boiler to a new position. Prices vary by region, with London and the South East typically running 30 to 40 percent above the national average.
Typical Labour-Only Cost by Job Type
| Job Type | Typical Labour-Only Cost |
|---|---|
| Like-for-like combi swap, same position | £500 to £900 |
| Like-for-like system or regular boiler swap | £600 to £1,000 |
| Relocating the boiler to a new position | £800 to £1,500 |
| Converting a regular boiler to combi | £800 to £1,500 |
What Affects the Price
- Boiler type and job complexity. A simple swap in the same position with the same boiler type is the cheapest option, since it needs no new pipework or flue routing
- Access to the current boiler. Difficult access, such as a boiler in a tight cupboard or awkward loft space, adds time and therefore cost
- Region. Labour rates in London and the South East typically run 30 to 40 percent above the national average, while other regions sit closer to the baseline figures above
- Additional work needed. A powerflush to clear sludge from old radiators typically adds £400 to £600, while a new flue, condensate pipe re-route, or additional pipework all add further labour time
- Engineer experience and demand. Gas Safe engineers set their own day rates, commonly averaging around £300 a day, and busier engineers in high demand periods may charge more
Labour-Only vs Supply-and-Fit — Which Is Cheaper?
Labour-only fitting, where you buy the boiler yourself and pay an engineer purely for installation, can work out cheaper if you are able to source the boiler unit at a genuinely competitive price and are confident coordinating any additional materials the job needs. However, many installers offer supply-and-fit packages that bundle the boiler, warranty registration, and labour together, and using a manufacturer-approved installer through this route often secures a longer warranty, sometimes up to 10 to 12 years compared with just 2 years for a non-approved installation. For many homeowners, the warranty difference alone outweighs any small saving from sourcing the boiler independently.
Getting Accurate Quotes
- Get at least three quotes, since prices for comparable jobs can vary by £1,000 or more between engineers
- Ask for an itemised quote breaking out labour, boiler cost, and any additional materials separately, rather than one bundled figure
- Confirm whether the quote includes the Gas Safe certificate and notification, which should be standard on any legitimate installation
- Ask specifically whether a powerflush, new flue, or additional pipework is included or will be charged separately
When Labour-Only Makes Sense
Labour-only fitting tends to suit straightforward, like-for-like swaps where you already know the exact boiler model needed and can source it reliably. For anything more complex, such as converting boiler type or relocating the unit, the coordination involved in sourcing the right boiler alongside all the additional materials often makes a supply-and-fit package more straightforward, even if the headline price looks slightly higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does labour-only boiler fitting cost in the UK?
Typically £500 to £900 for a simple like-for-like swap, rising to £800 to £1,500 for a conversion or relocation.
Is labour-only fitting cheaper than supply-and-fit?
It can be if you source the boiler competitively yourself, though supply-and-fit through an approved installer often includes a longer warranty.
Why is boiler fitting more expensive in London?
Labour rates in London and the South East typically run 30 to 40 percent above the national average due to higher regional costs.
Does labour-only fitting include a Gas Safe certificate?
It should, since only a Gas Safe registered engineer can legally carry out or certify the work, but always confirm this is included in your quote.
Does converting to a combi boiler cost more in labour?
Yes, typically £800 to £1,500, since it involves removing the tank and cylinder and re-routing pipework compared with a straightforward like-for-like swap.