News

Working at Height

Providing functional, cost effective control measures against falls from height when carrying out minor works on domestic properties can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be this way. The Work at Height Regulations (2005) requires that where work at height cannot be avoided, suitable and sufficient measures are taken to “prevent, so far as…

No Contract No Payment

Having a contract in place before starting work seems obvious, but complaints from customers and traders seem to indicate that the obvious doesn’t always happen. We spoke to the team at Which? Trusted Traders on their top tips when it comes to customer contracts.

Chimney Sweep Approval with HETAS

HETAS recognises the important role of chimney sweeps in ensuring the safe and effective use of solid fuel appliances. HETAS is intending to open up an additional pathway for applicants to the HETAS Approved Chimney Sweep scheme.

The Importance of Commissioning

Commissioning of any solid fuel appliance is a vital part of the installation process. However, on occasions it can be overlooked. HETAS Inspections Manager Alan Young talks to us about the critical points of the commissioning process. Guidance Building Regulations require appliances and flue systems to be tested on completion to ensure safe operation. the…

Refresher Courses with HETAS

Refresher Courses HETAS introduced refresher courses back in 2014 in response to changes placed upon schemes by government. With many of you due to refresh over the coming year, we spoke to the training team about what’s new. HETAS has been providing refresher training for over five years now, in response to changes in the…

Not so Golden

Not so Golden HETAS continues it’s work of ridding our industry of the cowboys who mislead customers and rip them off with poor standards of workmanship. Rogue traders Liam Golden and Aaron Parry were charged in court in the last month through the hard work of HETAS and Trading Standards. Two rogue traders narrowly avoided…

Hearth Marking

Marking of the Hearth Boundary The HETAS technical helpline regularly receive enquiries relating to the subject of how a hearth surface should be marked out, i.e. the demarcation or boundary of the hearth against the regular flooring material in the room. The regulation requiring reference here is as follows: J4: Protection of Building; Combustion appliances…

Which? Stove User Survey

Which? Stove User Survey Which? has been championing the cause for consumers since 1957, asking probing questions of businesses and manufacturers, and pursuing the answers that put you in the driving seat. A recent survey from Which? highlighted the importance of using professional services when it comes to purchasing and installing a wood burning stove.…

Save on Which? Trusted Traders Membership

Save on Which? Trusted Traders membership 74% of people are more likely to choose a business endorsed by Which? Become a Which? Trusted Trader today. HETAS members get 50% off the first 6 months! We know your busy, so we’ll keep it short. Which? Trusted Traders have teamed up with HETAS to bring members 50%…

Fireplace surround Update

Surround Update In recent years HETAS has been made aware of a small number of fatalities caused by incorrectly fitted fireplace surrounds. In a recent court case, a “cowboy job” was said to be the cause of the death of two-year-old boy. Bram Radcliffe was in his living room when the 60kg fixture, described as…