Most boiler installs don’t go wrong because of the boiler. They go wrong because someone guessed the flue position, bodged the condensate route, and then the job turns into a “we’ll be back next week” situation. Meanwhile, you’re boiling the kettle for a wash and watching the weather app like it owes you money.
We’re ARA Services Ltd — Gas Safe engineers based in Forest Gate (E7). We’re in and out of places like Woodgrange Road, Romford Road, Stratford and up through the North/East patch most days. If you want a straight answer, call +44 7727 154 746. Phone-first. No finance plans. No sales script.
The flue must be positioned and terminated safely, following manufacturer instructions and current standards — especially around windows/doors, boundaries, vents, walkways, and neighbours.
If you’re planning the whole job, start here: our boiler installation page.
Condensate should drain reliably (usually to an internal waste where possible), with the right fall and protection — because frozen external runs are a classic winter callout.
If you want the “how to get priced properly” guide: get a quote without the back-and-forth.
In a new-build with space everywhere, flue and condensate planning is straightforward. In London? You’ve got rear extensions, side returns, narrow alleys, neighbours close enough to hear you unwrap a crisp, and flats where the “easy route” is a shared walkway or a balcony.
We see it a lot around Stratford (balconies and tight plant cupboards), Leyton/Forest Gate terraces (awkward rear routes), and conversions where someone boxed everything in beautifully… and left no access.
If you’re comparing prices and they feel all over the place: why quotes vary in London.
Flue work is not a DIY area. If a flue is wrong, it’s not just “inefficient” — it can be unsafe. Always use a properly qualified engineer and expect certification and paperwork.
If you’re mid-issue right now: boiler fault finding & repairs.
People hear “flue rules” and think it’s about paperwork. In practice, it’s about one simple question: Where are the fumes going, and could they cause a safety issue or nuisance?
A terrace off Romford Road with a rear extension: the obvious flue exit ends up too close to the neighbour’s kitchen window. Or a conversion near Mile End where the flue route is boxed in and there’s no access to inspect it properly. Or a flat by Westfield where the only external wall faces a communal balcony and suddenly you’re dealing with building rules.
If you’re also choosing a combi upgrade, don’t forget gas supply: check your gas pipe sizing.
We’ve seen quotes that treat the flue like a footnote: “standard flue included”. But “standard” doesn’t exist in half of London. If the flue needs an alternative route, plume kit, or extra work to keep it compliant, it changes the job.
Cost context lives here: new boiler cost & installation breakdown.
Condensing boilers produce condensate (slightly acidic water) that has to drain away. When it’s routed badly — especially outside — it can freeze during cold snaps and the boiler locks out. The first sign is usually: “It was fine last night, now it’s dead.”
External condensate lines clipped along a back wall in a shaded side return (classic terrace setup), then winter hits and it’s game over. Or a flat where the only “easy” option is a long run to a balcony drain that nobody can access properly. These are avoidable — but only if someone thinks about it before drilling holes.
If the system’s also dirty, protect the new boiler properly: power flush vs chemical clean.
Sometimes gravity drainage just isn’t realistic (awkward layout, no nearby waste, finished rooms). In those cases, a condensate pump can be the clean solution — but it still needs planning, access, and neat routing. We’ll tell you when it’s sensible and when it’s overkill.
Want the “big picture” install done right? full installation approach here.
Call +44 7727 154 746. If you’re near Forest Gate Station, Wanstead Flats, or caught by the A12 traffic and you’ve got 3 minutes, tell us: where the boiler sits, where the nearest waste is, and what wall you think the flue would exit. We’ll tell you what usually becomes the issue in that type of property.
Prefer photos? Use: our contact form (boiler area + outside wall + nearest waste point).
We once got called to a place not far from Stratford where the boiler was “new” but kept locking out. The owner thought they’d bought a bad boiler. It wasn’t the boiler. The condensate run had been taken outside, long and exposed, and the cold weather finished it off. The fix wasn’t dramatic — it was just doing the boring bit properly. After that, no more 7am panic.
“They fitted a new boiler, worked without taking a break, and cleaned up properly afterwards.”
Alison Louis“Identified the issues immediately and fixed the problem. Very professional.”
Rachel Boston“Reliable, honest and true to their quote — highly recommended.”
Elimelech HalberstamNot really. The flue position has to meet safety requirements and follow the boiler manufacturer’s instructions. In London, the “obvious wall” can be the wrong wall if it points at a neighbour’s window, a walkway, or a covered area. If you tell us your layout, we’ll explain the likely options before you spend money.
Flats often involve shared walkways, balconies, managing agents, and strict rules about external appearance. The flue can’t just “go out wherever” if it affects other residents. That’s why a proper survey matters more than a headline price.
Usually an internal route to a suitable waste is the most reliable. External runs can work when done properly, but long exposed pipes are asking for freeze-ups during cold snaps. We plan it so it drains reliably, not “most days”.
Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. Rules, boiler designs and terminal types differ, and the best position can change depending on the new appliance. We’ll assess and confirm using the manufacturer instructions for the boiler being installed.
It can, depending on access and routing. It’s why some quotes look “cheap” — they assume best case. If you want to understand what’s included before booking, this helps: why quotes vary in London.
Send photos of (1) the boiler location, (2) the outside wall where the flue would likely exit, and (3) the nearest waste point for condensate. Use this message form or call +44 7727 154 746.
Call +44 7727 154 746. Tell us the property type (flat/terrace), where the boiler sits, and where you think the flue and condensate would go. We’ll give you a straight answer and flag the likely snags before the day of install.
