Are annual boiler checks obligatory in France?

Reader Question: Do we need to get our boiler inspected at our second home? We are only there in the summer so do not use it for heating in winter.

Annual inspection is mandatory for most boilers, irrespective of type. 

Since 2009, all boilers (chaudières) with a power of between 4kw and 400kw (many properties will have a boiler of this size) need to be serviced annually. 

This is the case whether the boiler is a gas, coal, oil, or wood, and also apples to heat pumps. 

The exception to this is electric facilities. These are often only chauffe-eau - water heaters, for the production of hot water rather than for heating of building, however even if it is a chaudière, maintenance is not obligatory. 

However regular maintenance is still advised.

Inspections of boilers must be carried out by a professional chauffagiste, who will provide a certificate showing it has been tested. 

This should be kept for around two years as proof in case there are future issues, even if another inspection has taken place since. 

In the event of a new installation, a check should be made within the first year, then used as the point of reference for future inspections.

Either property owners or tenants can be responsible for arranging inspections – for the latter, it should be made clear in the rental agreement who needs to arrange this. 

In shared buildings such as flats, the building management company is responsible for arranging the inspection if there is a collective heating system. 

The inspection will consist of several checks of the boiler’s good function, as well as cleaning and other maintenance. 

Costs vary depending on the type of boiler, but rough estimates are: 

• Traditional gas boiler, €100 to €150

• Condensing boiler, €120 to €180

• Oil boiler, €150 to €200

• Electric boiler, €80 to €120

• Wood boiler (logs or pellets), €150 to €250

• Heat pump, €150 to €300

It can be cheaper to sign up for annual checks with a company. 

Inspections are usually carried out between May and September, ideally before heating systems are turned on for the winter.

What happens if I do not get my boiler checked? 

Failure to arrange regular inspections can increase the risks of a damaged boiler, potentially leading to a breakdown or even wider damage to your home.

Health risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning are also possible from a faulty boiler. 

In addition, boilers that are not inspected and maintained can waste up to 20% more energy than a functioning one. 

Whilst there may not be government fines for not having your boiler serviced annually insurance companies may not cover any claims caused by a boiler that has not been inspected.