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I hope answers to these questions, from Master Plumber and others on this forum, could guide us and anyone else considering an oil to gas conversion.

We’re looking at such a conversion this spring for the steam-heat system in our 1914 attached, single-family brick house .

1) How does a plumber determine the size of the gas furnace needed? What should I expect them to check during a visit to provide an estimate?

2) How does a plumber determine if a chimney liner is needed with a new furnace? If a new liner is needed, should the property owner first contract with a chimney specialist to have this work done?

3) Since the conversion will likely requirement some movement of asbestos covered pipes connected to the existing boiler, should a property owner first contract with an asbestos-abatement specialist to remove the pipe wrapping, before working with a heating contractor?

4) Can the plumbing contractor also remove the un-needed oil tank? Or, again, should an owner contact a separate company for this work after the oil line is disconnected.

5) Should a plumbing contractor be responsible for any necessary permits and/or contact with Keyspan aka National Grid?

6) In this house, the existing oil burner is partially enclosed in a closet constructed of wood-frame and gypsum board. The front of this closet is fully opened, allowing the face plate of the oil burner to be removed for cleaning and maintenance. Am I correct that such an enclosure now violates the NYC building code? Does the owner need to remove this enclosure before contracting with a plumber?

7) How can an oil furnace be enclosed in a basement that may be used in the future as a living area? Does the furnace require specific clearances on ALL sides either for maintenance access and/or building code requirements? Are removable metal screens (such as larger version of radiator covers) an option to enclose the furnace?

Thanks in advance for your replies.