Beat the chill this winter

Winter's on its way, so you'll want to ensure that your home is warm and snug. Make sure your boiler has been serviced and is in good working order; boilers should be checked annually for safety by law, but regular servicing is a good idea too, to avoid any potentially expensive problems when the central heating is first switched on.

Using a reputable, reliable and trustworthy tradesman or engineer is paramount, and word of mouth is often the best way to find someone.

If you're looking for a boiler engineer that supplies and fits boilers to the highest standards, try New Malden Plumbing & Heating (0800 131 3830), an expert engineering company that is fully insured, while all work is guaranteed. You could also call JRM Heating Services, or Chapman N W Plumbing and Heating Engineer.

Other engineers in New Malden recommended by Gas Safe Register include Anthony Martin Wallace (020 8549 3727), NS Heating & Plumbing (020 8942 8958) and SDR 3 Ltd (020 8336 2278).

Looking for a bespoke fireplace or someone to service an existing one? Thames Fireplace Ltd has been supplying, fitting and servicing fires and fireplaces for nearly 20 years, with combined installer experience of over 40 years. The showroom on the Kingston Road is manned by qualified Corgi Gas installers and fireplace fitters.

Finally, for cavity wall insulation at a very high standard, call Tony Curme of Tolworth Construction. Tony is also a member of Checkatrade, which is a good starting point when looking for reputable tradesmen, and is dubbed 'the answer to the UK's rogue trade problem.'

What do you think about the companies we've listed? Do you have any personal recommendations, testimonials or success stories? Please let us know!