Back boiler - ok or not? Different views

Happytosave

We have just bought a flat which has a back boiler. It is behind an old fire place with one of those old 1970s fires/ heaters in front. There is a water tank in the kitchen.
We only did a basic valuation as it is in a building we know.

Just by having a chat on the phone with two plumbers, one says that they are reliable but inefficient and he could do a safety check for £75. Then if it's ok, then just leave it.
Another plumber, immediately said that we would have to rip it out and that if they (plumbers) come across them, they are told to condemn them as they do not fit in with up to date safety regulations.
Both plumbers come with personal recommendations from trusted, good friends. So I am not sure what the general consensus is on these boilers?

sk240

The first plumber is correct, if its in reasonable order you wont get a more reliable boiler.
He was also correct in that they are very inefficient (about 60%)
If you did replace it, it would have to be installed in a different location, and then you will also need a new fireplace too.

parking_question_chap

No reason its unsafe just because its old. Make sure its serviced at least once a year by a gas safety engineer with experience working on back boilers.