HETAS is the official body to approve solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels, installers and services. HEATS is recognised by the government and helps to provide a guidance for consumers when buying products and finding installers.

HETAS work covers approving products such as cookers, boilers, open fires, stoves and room heaters. It also has official guides for chimneys, carbon monoxide detectors and alarms for solid fuel.

There are only two methods of installing a domestic solid fuel, biomass or wood burning appliance in England and Wales.

You can do one of the following:

Use a HETAS registered installer that can certify the work carried out is compliant with all relevant building regulations. Alternatively you can apply to the local authority for a building notice and pay the appropriate fees. Fees can be as much as £300.

As a rule it is much easier and less expensive to use a HETAS registered installer. They will provide you with a Certificate of Compliance, for you to keep as record. A copy will be forwarded to HETAS who will notify the local authority for you.