What is central heating cover?
Boiler cover is a type of insurance policy that provides protection and assistance in the event of a boiler breakdown. It can cover the cost of repairs, including call-out charges, parts, and labour, ensuring you're not left without heating or hot water. The level of coverage depends on the specific policy you choose.
Boiler cover is typically for homeowners who want to ensure they have prompt assistance and can manage the costs if their boiler breaks down. It's particularly beneficial for those with older boilers or those who may not have the funds readily available to cover potential repair costs. It's also useful for those who have boiler warranty but need to cover the rest of their heating system.
It acts as a safeguard against the unpredictable damages that can be inflicted on home heating systems due to harsh weather conditions, offering homeowners a level of protection that extends beyond the standard warranty. Especially in areas with severe weather fluctuations, this type of cover can be invaluable in managing the costs and inconvenience of repairs, ensuring that despite the external elements, the warmth and comfort of the home are maintained without unexpected financial burdens.
What kinds of boiler policies are there?
There are three main types of boiler cover in the UK: Standard Boiler Cover, which focuses solely on the boiler; Boiler and Central Heating Cover, which extends to the entire central heating system; and Home Emergency Cover, which provides the most comprehensive coverage, including various household emergencies such as plumbing, drainage, and electrical issues.
What boilers can I get cover for?
You can get cover for various types of boilers, including gas, combi, condensing, and oil-powered boilers. However, it's essential to check with individual providers to ensure your specific boiler type is covered.
What if my boiler and central heating system is very old?
Some boiler cover providers place restrictions on the age of the boiler they will cover, with older boilers more likely to be denied due to the higher likelihood of needing repairs or replacement parts. Always check the specific age limitations with the provider to ensure your boiler is eligible for cover.
What if my boiler can't be fixed
Typically, if your boiler can't be fixed, your cover may contribute towards the cost of a replacement, but this depends on your specific policy. Check with your provider to understand what happens in the event of an unrepairable boiler.
If you move house, you can typically transfer your boiler cover to your new home, or you may need to cancel your current policy and take out a new one. It's important to check the terms and conditions of your specific boiler cover plan for more details.
How soon can I claim after taking out cover?
This will depend on the specifics of your policy, as some providers have a waiting period before you can make a claim, typically around 14-30 days after taking out the policy. Always check the terms and conditions of your policy.
Do I lose cover if I switch energy suppliers?
No, boiler cover is separate from your energy supplier. You can switch energy suppliers without affecting your boiler cover policy. However, some energy suppliers offer their own boiler cover policies, which you might lose if you switch.
How long does a callout take?
The time it takes for a gas-safety registered engineer to arrive after a callout can vary depending on your cover provider and the specific circumstances. Many providers aim to offer assistance within 24 hours of a callout, especially in cases where you're left without heating or hot water, but always check with your individual provider for their specific timeframes.
Does insurance cover include a boiler service in the UK?
Boiler cover can include a boiler service, but it depends on the specific policy and provider. Boiler cover is a type of insurance or service agreement that helps protect you against the cost of repairs or maintenance of your boiler and sometimes your central heating system. Here are a few key points to consider:
Basic Cover: Some basic policies might only cover repairs and breakdowns. This means if your boiler stops working, the policy will cover the cost of calling out an engineer to fix it, along with the parts and labour.
Comprehensive Cover: More comprehensive plans may include an annual boiler service, where an engineer visits your home to inspect your boiler, ensure it's operating efficiently, and catch any potential issues before they lead to a breakdown.
Additional Features: Some boiler cover plans might also include safety checks for your gas pipes, radiators, and more. It's important to read the details of any boiler cover policy carefully to understand what is and isn't included.
Benefits of Boiler Service: Including a boiler service in your cover can be beneficial as it may prolong the life of your boiler, improve efficiency, and ensure the safety of your home. Regular servicing is often recommended by manufacturers and may be a requirement of your boiler's warranty.
When considering boiler cover, it's important to compare different policies and providers to find one that suits your needs and budget. Check if an annual service is included, what the service entails, and if there are any exclusions or limits on claims.
Is a boiler service included in home care plans?
Yes, a boiler service is often included in homecare plans, but the specifics can vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage you choose. Home care plans, also known as home emergency cover or home maintenance plans, offer a broader range of services and protections for your home, covering not just your boiler but potentially also plumbing, electrical systems, and more.
Here's what you typically might find regarding boiler service in home care plans:
Annual Boiler Service: Many home care plans include an annual service of your boiler as part of the package. This service is designed to ensure that your boiler is running efficiently and safely. It usually involves checking all major components, cleaning parts where necessary, and identifying any potential issues that might need attention.
Levels of Coverage: Home care plans often come in tiers, with more comprehensive plans offering a wider range of services and coverage. While a basic level might cover boiler breakdowns and emergency repairs, higher tiers might include the annual boiler service, along with coverage for other home systems and appliances.
Preventative Maintenance: Including a boiler service in a home care plan is seen as preventative maintenance. By servicing the boiler annually, the risk of breakdowns is reduced, and the system's efficiency can be maintained or improved, potentially saving on heating costs.
Terms and Conditions: It's important to carefully read the terms and conditions of any home care plan. Look for information on what exactly the boiler service includes, how often it occurs, and whether there are any additional costs associated with it.
Provider Variations: Different providers might have different approaches to how they include boiler services in their plans. Some might offer it as a standard feature, while others may provide it as an optional add-on.
When considering a home care plan, compare different options and providers to see what is included regarding boiler servicing. Ensure that the plan meets your needs, offers good value, and provides the coverage and peace of mind you're looking for in terms of home maintenance and emergency repairs.
Should gas engineers be Gas Safe Registered?
Yes, gas engineers in England and the United Kingdom must be Gas Safe Registered (formerly CORGI) to legally work on gas callouts, including boilers, gas fires, ovens, hobs, and central heating systems. The Gas Safe Register is the official gas registration body appointed by the relevant Health and Safety Authority for Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and Guernsey. It replaced CORGI registration in 2009.
