NOT checking the heating system is the biggest regret of house buyers in Cumbria, says OFTEC, the trade association for the oil and heating industry.

The advice follows a survey that showed half of home owners did not check if radiators were working correctly before moving in.

OFTEC has produced a helpful guide to the key questions to ask sellers about heating systems. These include:

n When was the heating system last serviced? Boilers should be serviced at least once a year to ensure they are running correctly and efficiently - especially after last winter’s extreme weather.

n Did you use a qualified technician for any installation, servicing or repairs?There is always the risk with unqualified technicians that work is not up to standard, which could potentially put your safety at risk. Make sure the seller has used a GasSafe (for mains gas) or OFTEC (for oil and solid fuel) registered technician.

n How much does the system cost to run? Fuel bills are often the biggest cost for households. For the 14,000 homes in Cumbria off the gas grid, heating oil remains the cheapest fuel, says OFTEC.

n When was the heating system installed? Modern condensing boilers are far more efficient and can save up to 20 per cent on fuel bills. If the boiler is over 15 years old, it may be worth replacing it. Discuss this with the seller and you might be able to negotiate a discount.

n Has any wood burner/open fire been professionally installed and serviced? Like any heating system, they should be professionally installed, serviced and the chimney swept at least annually.

For more, see visit www.oilsave.org.uk