Important Information About Flues In Voids

If you live in a property such as a flat or apartment that has a sealed, fan assisted boiler that has a flue hidden behind a ceiling or wall; then you must be aware that a Gas Safe registered engineer will not be able to inspect the appliance. Here is some important information about flues in voids that you should be aware of.

Important Information About Flues In Voids

Because the flue removes the fumes from the boiler, it has to be accessible for inspection. A blocked flue, or one kept in poor condition, may put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If this applies to the property you own or that you live in, it’s a good idea to have an inspection hatch fitted to allow access to the flue. If a Gas Safe registered engineer comes to test the appliance and is unable to access the flue, they will have to classify the appliance as ‘At Risk’:

Important Information About Flues – What happens if my flue is “at risk.”

• It will be shut off
• It cannot be operated again until inspection hatches have been fitted.

Most affected systems are quite new (since 2000), however, each year they are unchecked puts the householder at further risk. If you think you might have such an appliance, a few options are available:

Important Information About Flues – What do I do about a hidden flue?

• In a property is less than two years old, contact the builder;
• If your property is between 2 and ten years old, you should contact your home warranty provider;
• If the property is over ten years old, contact a Gas Safe registered engineers such as L&W Heating and Plumbing.

Regardless of the property’s age, it is always a good idea to contact a qualified registered engineer as they can give you advice and make an assessment of the appliance to find out if inspection hatches are needed.

If you are a tenant, then your landlord is responsible for ensuring that all gas appliances are checked annually. For more information about flues in voids contact L&W Heating and Plumbing on one of our local numbers below:-

Newton Le Willows Plumbers 01925 394260
Warrington Plumbers 01925 394260
Wigan Plumbers 01942 417220
St Helens Plumbers 01744 776140