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Expert Plumbing and Heating Services in Bishops Stortford
Established in 1990, Five Oax is a family-run business with over three decades of expertise in plumbing, heating, and bathroom installations. Founded by John Oakes, a Gas Safe registered engineer with a legacy in the industry dating back to his father's Harlow-based company, we combine generational knowledge with modern techniques. Our team includes John's sons David and George, alongside long-serving professionals trained in-house, ensuring consistent quality across all services. We specialise in boiler installations, central heating systems, bathroom renovations, and property refurbishments, prioritising minimal disruption and meticulous attention to detail.

Our reputation, built on 90% repeat business and recommendations, reflects our commitment to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Every project is managed personally by John, guaranteeing transparency, fixed timelines, and adherence to budget. With Gas Safe accreditation and a focus on energy-efficient solutions, we serve Bishops Stortford and surrounding areas, offering tailored services from supply-and-fit to fit-only options. Our engineers operate from branded vans, wear uniforms, and maintain tidy workspaces, embodying our ethos of professionalism and pride in every task.
Services
Boiler Repairs Bathroom Installations Central Heating Plumbing Services Property Refurbishments Landlord Certificates Decorating Services
Details
  • Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
  • Family-run business with 30+ years of plumbing and heating expertise
  • Gas Safe registered engineers ensuring safety and compliance
  • Tailored services from boiler installations to full property refurbishments
  • Project managed personally by director John Oakes for accountability
  • 90% of business from repeat clients and recommendations
Associations and certifications
  • Gas Safe Register
What people say
Professional at all times Excellent workmanship Highly recommend Completed on time Outstanding results
Services
Boiler Repairs
Our Gas Safe registered engineers provide rapid boiler repair services to restore heating systems safely and efficiently. We address breakdowns, leaks, and inefficiencies while minimising disruption. Annual servicing prevents carbon monoxide risks and extends boiler lifespan, with free annual reminders included.
Bathroom Installations
From complete renovations to en-suite installations, we offer tailored bathroom solutions with premium fixtures and hidden pipework for clean aesthetics. Our team handles tiling, electrics, and underfloor heating, ensuring seamless integration of modern conveniences with timeless design.
Central Heating
We install and maintain energy-efficient central heating systems featuring condensing boilers, thermostatic radiator valves, and smart controls. Our solutions reduce energy consumption while optimising temperature regulation across residential and commercial properties in Bishops Stortford.
Plumbing Services
Our qualified plumbers handle all aspects of domestic and commercial plumbing, including tap replacements, pipe repairs, and immersion heater installations. We utilise advanced leak detection technology and guarantee tidy workspaces throughout the process.
Property Refurbishments
We coordinate full property refurbishments incorporating plumbing, electrical work, and structural modifications. Director John Oakes personally oversees projects to ensure adherence to timelines and budgets, utilising trusted subcontractors for specialist tasks while maintaining quality control.
People
John Oakes
Director
With over 30 years in the plumbing industry, John founded Five Oax in 1990. A Gas Safe registered engineer, he personally manages projects and brings generational expertise from his father's Harlow-based business to every client interaction.
Sue Oakes
Company Secretary
Sue oversees administrative operations and client communications for Five Oax. As John's wife, she ensures smooth coordination between field teams and customers, maintaining the family business's high service standards.
David Oakes
Plumbing Engineer
John's son David leads installation teams with specialist expertise in boiler systems and bathroom renovations. Recognised in multiple customer testimonials for exceptional workmanship, he represents the third generation of Oakes family tradespeople.
George Oakes
Heating Engineer
George specialises in central heating systems and energy-efficient upgrades. As the younger son of founder John Oakes, he combines traditional plumbing skills with modern technical knowledge to deliver sustainable solutions.
Questions
What areas do Five Oax serve?
We primarily serve Bishops Stortford and surrounding Hertfordshire areas, including Harlow, Sawbridgeworth, and Bishop's Stortford CM23 postcode district.
Are emergency plumbing services available?
Yes, we offer urgent boiler breakdown assistance with rapid response times to restore heating systems during critical situations.
How can I verify Five Oax's Gas Safe registration?
Our Gas Safe registration can be verified through the official Gas Safe Register website using our unique accreditation number.
Do you provide landlord gas safety certificates?
Yes, we issue Landlord Gas Safety Certificates as a standalone service or combined with boiler servicing at discounted rates.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept major credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and cheques. Payment terms are agreed in advance for larger refurbishment projects.
Can I see examples of past work?
Yes, our website features video showcases of completed bathroom renovations and heating installations, with additional references available upon request.