Keeping your appliances in tip-top condition and your tenants happy isn’t easy, which is why many landlords choose to get boiler cover. Having a point-of-call should the unexpected happen takes away the stress of unexpected costs and the uncertainty of calling round in search of an engineer, especially in the evening and at weekends. For landlords in particular, taking out a boiler cover policy is convenient as it allows the tenant to deal with the provider directly rather than going through the landlord.
What is boiler cover and how does it work?
In exchange for a small monthly fee, your policy will cover the costs of engineer callouts and labour, providing protection for boiler faults, breakdowns, and any other issues you might face. The cost and level of cover will vary depending on the boiler cover product you choose. The more expensive policies will cover your central heating system, plumbing and drainage in addition to your boiler itself. Most policies include an annual boiler service, which is required to keep the manufacturer’s warranty valid and to ensure the boiler is working properly.
Some companies may charge more to cover older boiler models, for example, if the boiler is more than 10 years old. There may also be terms exempting boilers that have already had a breakdown.
It is important to distinguish between insurance plans, which are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and non-insured boiler cover plans. This distinction is relevant in relation to contracts and price increases. A non-insured subscription-based service will have no price increases whereas insurance policies will increase the costs after your first year and in relation to the number of call outs.
What is the difference between homeowner boiler cover and landlord boiler cover?
Landlord boiler cover is essentially the same as that of a homeowner, the main difference being the provision of a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12). A CP12, otherwise known as a Landlord Gas Safety Record (GSLR), is a legal document that confirms that all gas appliances in the rental property have been checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Is landlord boiler cover worth it?
To determine whether boiler cover is financially effective for you, you should check what’s already covered in your landlord insurance. Modern boilers come with a manufacturer’s warranty of up to 10 years depending on the installer. Getting a Vaillant or Worcester Bosch boiler installed by a Vaillant Advanced and Worcester Accredited Installer provides an extended warranty on your boiler.
What’s the point in landlord cover if I have a manufacturer’s warranty?
The warranty is only there to cover you if your boiler fails or breaks down within a certain number of years. Breakdown caused by physical damage or limescale may void the warranty, which is why it’s important for you to see what’s covered prior to taking out boiler cover.
Boiler cover takes away the stress of unexpected breakdowns and repairs, and lets you avoid paying a large sum of money at once. Boiler cover products will include a regular annual boiler service as part of the policy to ensure routine maintenance is carried out.
What landlord boiler cover do I need?
It is important to note when choosing your provider whether they allow unlimited callouts and, if so, how much you’ll need to pay. You might want to look at whether your chosen provider offers a 24/hr customer helpline and evening/weekend appointments. If your boiler breaks down in the evening or at a weekend, you may have to wait till normal office hours before an engineer can get to you. The main thing to consider is whether the provider is suitable for your specific needs. The best way to figure this out is by comparing providers by doing your research. Look at the company’s website, call its customer service team and look at reviews.
What happens during an annual boiler service?
Your annual service appointment should last 60-90 minutes, in which time the engineer will:
- Visually inspect boiler
- Remove boiler cover and check all main components
- Clean all main boiler parts
- Check gas pressure
- Check flue and combustion operation
- Check safety devices
- Bleed all radiators
- Carry out routine safety checks
An annual service is necessary to keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid.
What is excess and do I have to pay it?
Excess is the charge you may have to pay for an engineer to visit your property and fix your boiler. Some companies include excess in their monthly price whereas others charge an excess when an engineer callout is required.
Can I switch to a different cover provider?
If you are unhappy with your current boiler cover provider, it is possible and relatively simple to change boiler cover provider. You should check the terms and conditions of your current contract to see if there are any cancellation fees or, alternatively, wait till the policy expires to change company.
Call our team for more information on the benefits of landlord boiler cover 0800 112 3697
