Do plumbers handle boilers? Here’s the straight‑up answer

When your boiler stops heating, the first instinct is to call a plumber. But does a plumber have the right training to work on a gas‑or oil‑fired boiler? The short answer: many plumbers are qualified, but you need a Gas Safe certified professional for anything involving gas.

What a qualified plumber can do

A plumber who holds a Gas Safe registration can tackle most boiler jobs – fixing a leaking pressure valve, replacing a thermostat, or bleeding radiators. In the UK the Gas Safe Register is the legal requirement for anyone working on gas appliances. If your plumber shows you a valid Gas Safe ID card, they’re legally allowed to work on the boiler.

When you need a heating engineer

Some tasks go beyond a typical plumber’s skill set. Full boiler replacements, complex gas pipework, or modifying the combustion chamber usually require a specialist heating engineer. These pros focus solely on heating systems, stay up‑to‑date with the latest efficiency standards, and can provide the manufacturer’s warranty paperwork.

Another red flag is when the problem involves the gas supply line outside the boiler room. That work is classified as “gas pipe installation or alteration,” which only a Gas Safe engineer can do. A plumber can diagnose a fault, but they must hand it over to an engineer for any gas‑line changes.

If your boiler is under a service contract, the provider will often send a certified engineer, not a general plumber. The contract usually covers annual safety checks, which are mandatory by law. Skipping the certified visit can void the warranty and even breach safety regulations.

So how do you know who to call? Check the plumber’s credentials first. Ask to see their Gas Safe card and confirm the card number on the official register. If they can’t produce it, call a heating engineer instead.

In practice, many local plumbing firms employ both plumbers and Gas Safe engineers. That means you can call the same business and be sure the right person will show up. It’s worth asking the receptionist which tradesperson will be on the call‑out.

Bottom line: a plumber with a valid Gas Safe registration can fix most boiler faults, but major replacements or gas‑line work need a certified heating engineer. Knowing the difference saves you time, money, and avoids illegal work penalties.

Next time your boiler quits, grab that Gas Safe card, ask the right questions, and you’ll get the right pro to the job – fast and safely.