5 Star Plumbing & Gas
BackBased in Nine Elms, London, 5 Star Plumbing & Gas offers a range of specialised services for homeowners and landlords. Publicly available customer feedback suggests a company with considerable technical skill, particularly in large-scale projects like boiler and heating system installations. However, prospective clients should also be aware of some reported inconsistencies in communication and reliability, painting a picture of a competent but occasionally stretched operation.
Expertise in Heating Systems and Installations
The overwhelming consensus from positive customer experiences is that 5 Star Plumbing & Gas excels at complex installation work. Many reviews highlight successful and efficient boiler installation projects. Clients have praised a key figure, Rowan, and his team for their professionalism and high-quality workmanship. One long-term customer, who has used the company for three years, noted the "amazing service" and "nice clean pipe work" when their boiler and central heating system were first installed. This points to a team that not only understands the mechanics but also values the aesthetics and longevity of their work, a crucial factor in major home investments.
Further praise is directed at the company's ability to work within a client's financial constraints. Multiple reviews mention that the team was able to source and install boilers at an "affordable price" and within a customer's specific budget. This suggests a good network of suppliers and a customer-centric approach to sales, rather than simply pushing the most expensive options. For anyone undertaking a significant central heating installation, this combination of technical skill and cost-effectiveness is a major advantage. The team is also described as "hard working," getting jobs involving new boilers and radiators done "quickly and efficiently."
Ongoing Support and Plumbing Services
A positive indicator for any service-based business is customer loyalty, and there is evidence that 5 Star Plumbing & Gas builds lasting relationships. Several clients who used the company for initial installations have continued to rely on them for their annual boiler service. This recurring business suggests a high level of trust and satisfaction with the initial job. One customer noted that the annual service is "one less thing to worry about," while another mentioned that the team has "responded promptly when we've had questions" in the years following the installation. This demonstrates a commitment to aftercare, an essential service that provides peace of mind.
While the focus of many reviews is on heating and gas, the company presents itself as a comprehensive provider of plumbing services. Their website details a full suite of offerings, from fixing a leaking pipe to full bathroom and kitchen plumbing work. They also explicitly offer services for landlords, including Landlord Gas Safety Certificates, a legal requirement for rental properties. This requires a certified and reliable Gas Safe engineer, a qualification the company states its team holds. Customers should always verify this independently by asking to see an engineer's Gas Safe ID card before any work commences.
Concerns Regarding Communication and Reliability
Despite the many positive technical reviews, it is important to address a significant concern raised in customer feedback. A highly detailed negative review from a few years ago outlines a serious breakdown in communication. The prospective customer, who found the company via Rated People, described a poor initial phone interaction, followed by a promise of an emailed booking form that never materialised. Despite follow-up texts, the company reportedly failed to respond and ultimately did not show up on the agreed-upon day for the job.
This experience highlights a critical weakness in the company's booking and customer service process at that time. While the technical proficiency of the plumbers is rarely questioned, this incident suggests that administrative organisation and client communication can be a point of failure. For potential customers, this is a noteworthy red flag. It underscores the importance of ensuring all arrangements are confirmed in writing and that there is a clear line of communication from the outset. While this review is several years old and may not reflect current practices, it remains a part of the company's public record and is something that new customers may want to bear in mind when making initial contact.
Final Assessment
5 Star Plumbing & Gas appears to be a tale of two parts. On one hand, it is a highly capable team of engineers who can deliver excellent results on complex and demanding jobs like full heating system overhauls. The praise for their workmanship, efficiency, and affordability is consistent and compelling. Customers who get the team on-site seem to be overwhelmingly satisfied, often becoming repeat clients for maintenance and servicing.
On the other hand, the documented issues with communication and reliability in the pre-booking stage cannot be ignored. The failure to follow up, send confirmations, or even show up for a scheduled job is a major service failing. Therefore, potential customers are advised to approach with this in mind. It would be prudent to be proactive in communication, seek written confirmation of all appointments and quotes, and ensure you have a direct contact for any queries. If you can successfully navigate the booking process, the evidence suggests you will be in the hands of very skilled and professional engineers capable of handling everything from a minor repair to being your go-to contractor for a major boiler repair or installation project.