Choosing a new fireplace is the fun part. But, once you’ve found the right fireplace for your home, the next step is to get it installed. 

Who fits the fireplace matters just as much as what type of fireplace you choose. 

After all, even the very best fireplaces can’t perform safely or efficiently if they aren’t correctly installed.

In the UK, fireplace installation isn’t covered by one blanket qualification that spans all fireplace types. Actually, the right credential for your use case will depend on the type of fuel that your new fireplace will use.

There are two main bodies that you need to know about. These are the Gas Safe Register and HETAS. In this article, we’ve covered both of these in more detail, to help you understand exactly what’s needed for your specific installation. 

What does Gas Safe registered mean?

If you’re having a gas fire installed, your installer must be registered with the Gas Safe Register. This is a legal requirement for anyone that is carrying out gas work in the UK.

This means that a gas engineer cannot install or work on a gas fire, without being registered.

This requirement exists because gas fires must be installed correctly, in order to ensure they are operating safely. The correct ventilation, flue arrangements and connections are all critical components. 

So, if you have selected a new gas fire, before you hire someone to install the unit, you should confirm that they are a Gas Safe registered installer and that this registration covers the type of work that they’ll be doing. 

What does HETAS registered mean?

HETAS is the recognised body for solid fuel and wood-burning stove installers. This scheme confirms that individuals are certified and trained to install these units.

Unlike Gas Safe registration, HETAS registration isn’t a legal requirement for installing solid fuel and wood-burning stoves.

However, it is strongly recommended that you choose a registered installer. This is because a HETAS registered installer can self-certify certain installation works as being compliant with Building Regulations. 

This then saves the homeowner from having to make a separate – and costly – application to your Local Authority Building Control department. 

Why does certification matter?

These credentials and certifications provide you with assurance about the quality and safety of the installation work. 

The benefits of choosing a qualified fireplace installer include: 

• Proof of competence (providing reassurance that the installation has been completed by someone with the relevant training and experience)
• The ability to self-certify and notify Building Control (as explained in the previous section)
• Providing a Certificate of Compliance. This paper trail is critical for insurance and future home sales. 

What should you check, before hiring a fireplace installer?

Before you arrange an installation, be sure to check the following:

• That they have the relevant registration – Confirm the installer is Gas Safe registered (for gas fireplaces) or HETAS registered (for solid fuel fireplaces).
• Whether they regularly install the type of fireplace you’re choosing
• What certificates you’ll receive, once the installation is complete.
• How the installation will be certified 
• Whether any Building Control notification is required
• Electrical work qualifications (if you’re choosing an electrical fireplace or media wall). If the fireplace or unit needs to be connected to the mains, then this will need to be done by a suitably experienced and qualified electrician.
• That they have the required insurance to complete the work.

At The Fireplace Studio, our accredited in-house installation team has the skills, training, experience and certifications required to install all fireplace types.

They can support you throughout the entire process, including everything from choosing the right appliance, to installing and maintaining the unit, into the long term. 

So, if you’re looking for a new fireplace, The Fireplace Studio team are on hand to help.