Investment works

We have some information for you about our central heating replacement scheme and how it could affect you. The work may vary slightly from what is stated depending on the type of property you live in and all works will be subject to an individual survey.

Why is the work being done?

The central heating boiler in your home is old and due for replacement with a more efficient one. If you have a ducted warm air system we will fit your home with radiators. If you have electrical storage heaters in your home we will where possible install a gas central heating system. If you already have radiators in your home we will renew your heating controls and radiator valves so you can control the level of heat from each radiator. This work should help you control your heating and help you reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. You may also get the choice of a new fire fitted in your living room. Our programme of replacements aims to ensure your central heating system is renewed in order to maintain the Decent Homes Standard. You will be notified in writing by us if your area is scheduled for such works in the current financial year. If your boiler has recently been fitted and is in good condition, it will not be replaced as part of the scheme.

How long will the work take?

The work will normally take two to three consecutive working days to complete.

What should I do before the work starts?

The customer liaison advisor will visit you at least a week before the work is due to start to explain the work involved and what you will need to do. In some cases carpets, floor coverings and floorboards may need to be lifted and re-laid by the contractor. Lifting and relaying of laminate flooring is the responsibility of the tenant. If you are unable to do this we may be able to arrange to have this done for you but we would not be responsible for any damage caused. Furniture and white goods may have to be moved from working areas. The customer liaison adviser will inform you if any of these apply to you.

The following preparations are normally required: 

• If your new boiler is to be fitted in your kitchen you will need to empty any cupboards that will be removed to make way for it.
• You will need to allow reasonable access for the workmen.
• You should store safely any electrical items such as microwaves, televisions or stereos, as well as ornaments  around the working area to avoid them being damaged accidentally during the work.

If you need help moving any items or other support please inform the customer liaison advisor when they visit your home.

What does the work involve?

The contractor will remove or make safe the central heating boiler, gas fire, hot water cylinder and tanks in the loft (where required). Your heating controls, time clocks, thermostats and radiator valves will also be removed ready for renewal. Wherever possible, we will fit a new high efficiency condensing boiler to an external wall in your kitchen. The contractor may need to relocate or remove a kitchen wall unit to make room for the boiler.

Where a combination boiler is to be installed, there will be no need for a hot water storage tank or insulated cold-water tank with this type of boiler, as this provides all the hot water required. If this type of boiler can’t be installed for technical reasons, this will be explained to you and an alternative will be fitted. This may alter amount of work to be done.

New heating and hot water controls will be fitted and set to your requirements when the installation is complete.  We will give you verbal and written instructions on how to adjust the controls yourself if you wish to change the settings in the future. New thermostatic valves will be fitted to all radiators, except in the hallway, which does not need one. This will allow you greater flexibility to control the temperature in each room.

The contractor will also carry out any electrical work needed for the heating installation, as well as checking and upgrading the electrical earthing of metal pipework. At the same time gas pipework will be tested and renewed if necessary. The contractor has to follow safe working practices at all times. The contractor will take away your old heating system and dispose of it correctly.

What disruption will there be?

At times the work may be noisy and dusty and you may not be able to use some of your rooms while the work is underway. Work will not be carried out in all your rooms at the same time so there will always be somewhere for you and your family to stay in comfort. There will be disruption to your heating and hot water during the works, though you will not be left without these overnight. If you feel that your personal circumstances, or health may prevent you from coping with this work and would like to discuss what options are available, please contact the customer liaison advisor or the Property Services team.

Will my decoration be damaged?

When full heating systems are to be installed, it is possible your decoration may be damaged during the works. If this occurs, we will give you an allowance towards the cost of redecoration. This will be in the form or redecoration vouchers which you can use at local stores. If you are in rent arrears then the allowance may be credited to your rent account to reduce your debt to the Council.