Specifications
diculties may be uncovered once the installation is started, for example connecting to an existing heat
distribution system. Problems such as this will be mainly related to the installation costs so it would still be
recommended that boiler costs and associated equipment are quoted separately leaving only variable costs
associated with the installation.
As with any purchase, there will be options as to which manufacturer’s product you select. There will be
equivalent boilers within a quality range. Don’t select the cheapest boiler without making a balanced
judgment on the quality of the system and features included. Other factors you may wish to consider
include familiarity with supplier / installer based on previous experience, references and recommendations
from trusted sources, does the supplier / installer provide a good backup service at a reasonable cost in a
timely manner in your locality and how many installations have previously been carried out. It is therefore
recommended that at least three quotes are obtained before committing to any purchase.
Contracts
Best practice dictates that you obtain an agreement in writing relating to the boiler and installation costs
before proceeding. Do not rely on verbal agreements. Make sure anything agreed is written down so that
you have a fallback position if things are not to your satisfaction during the installation process. See the
SEAI model contract for installation. At the very least this can be used as a starting point for drafting a
contract. The contract will protect you against any misunderstandings as both you and the supplier need to
be satised before signing contracts. This process often brings things to light before it is too late and they
become a problem.
Payment Terms and Project Milestones
You should agree a xed price inclusive of VAT for all products and services related to the system installation
and a start and nish date with your installer and pay him the agreed amount once the installation is
completed to your satisfaction. Where instalment payments are agreed, these should be on the basis of key
project milestones, and the installer should supply a receipt for all payments made.