Cheap boiler cover

Best boiler cover
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If you’re concerned about your boiler or central heating system breaking down, boiler breakdown cover is there to assist when issues arise. Energy companies frequently try to sell it at higher prices, but it’s not something you must accept. This guide will walk you through the essentials of boiler cover, help you decide if it’s necessary for you, and highlight our top policy recommendations if you choose to get coverage.

What is boiler cover?

Boiler cover is essentially what it sounds like – an insurance policy designed to assist with the costs of repairing your boiler in the event of a breakdown. However, there are various tiers of coverage available to suit different needs.

• Boiler-only cover. This is the most basic level of coverage and is generally the least expensive. It usually includes only the boiler and its controls. Most central heating claims arise from boiler issues, but if the problem lies beyond the boiler itself, this type of policy won’t provide assistance.
• Boiler and central heating cover. Additionally, include coverage for instances where components like pipes, radiators, or central heating pumps malfunction or fail.
• Boiler, heating, plumbing, drains and home electrics cover. This type of coverage is generally pricier. It typically includes protection for central heating repairs, as well as coverage for burst pipes, clogged drains, and electrical issues.

Another type of coverage is home emergency protection. Generally, this covers your boiler and heating system, as well as offering assistance with issues like flooding, pest infestations, and more. As implied by the name, it usually addresses urgent situations—especially if your health is in danger, your home becomes unlivable, or could face further damage if the issue isn’t resolved quickly. For instance, this could apply if a pipe has burst and you’re unable to shut off the water, or if your boiler has broken down during freezing weather.

No matter which coverage option you choose, it’s essential to thoroughly review the details to ensure the policy fits your needs, avoiding both under-coverage and over-coverage. Additionally, keep in mind that most policies come with a waiting period before claims can be made (intended to prevent people from enrolling just when their boiler fails). This waiting period typically ranges from 14 to 30 days.

Should I get boiler cover?

Boiler cover may not be suitable for everyone – it largely depends on your situation and whether you’re already covered elsewhere. It’s important to consider if the monthly expense is justified for your needs, as paying for unnecessary coverage doesn’t make sense. Here are some essential factors to consider:

• Check if your home insurance already provides cover. Some home insurance policies offer an option for home emergencies or boiler coverage, either included or available for an additional fee. This typically covers call-out charges and temporary repairs, although an excess may still apply in some cases.

Beforehand, consult your provider to ensure you’re not over-insured. Alternatively, refer to our Cheap Home Insurance guide to locate an insurer that includes this coverage in their plan.

• You don’t need it if you rent. Boiler cover is primarily a concern for homeowners. Renters typically aren’t responsible for it. However, it’s wise to verify the emergency arrangements your landlord has established before signing your lease. This way, you’ll be aware of how long you might be without heat if something goes wrong.
• Consider self-insuring if your boiler is under three years old. If you possess new and dependable equipment, self-insuring could be a more economical option. Essentially, this means establishing a top savings account to create an emergency fund. In the event of an issue, the funds are available to cover costs. If no problems arise, you keep the money.

Keep in mind that this approach requires time to develop, and repairing or replacing a boiler can be costly. For instance, a new fan might set you back approximately £230, a pump replacement could reach around £300, and replacing a heat exchanger may exceed £400.

One strategy is to self-insure in the initial years of your boiler’s lifespan, when the likelihood of failure is lower. Then, after a few years, you can decide to invest in insurance.

What types of boilers can I cover?

You can typically find boiler cover for various types of boilers.

The most affordable plans usually cater to domestic gas boilers, including both condensing and combi models.

Coverage is also available for oil-powered and LPG boilers, but your options may be more limited. If you own one of these, be sure to select a policy that fits your specific needs.

Most plans will require that your boiler is in ‘good working order’ when you purchase the coverage, and many will specify an age limit for the boiler. Therefore, it’s important to carefully review the details of any policies you’re considering, especially if your boiler is older.

Boiler cover need-to-knows

If you’re considering boiler insurance, here are five essential points to grasp before choosing a new policy. Keep in mind that with any new boiler insurance, claims cannot be made during the initial 14 to 30 days.

1 – Find out if a service is included

Typically, you will still need to pay for an annual boiler service, although some insurance policies may include it.

Most policies won’t cover damages if your boiler fails due to lack of proper maintenance, and they also do not cover safety inspection costs.

Scheduling an annual service is a great way to prevent these issues, and it may even be complimentary during the first year after installation.

Many boiler cover policies now offer an annual service as part of the coverage or as an optional add-on. If your policy doesn’t include this, expect to pay around £60-£120 for the annual service separately.

Alternatively, check out our top picks, as these options include a service in their minimum cover plans.

2 – Check if call-outs are unlimited

Not all insurance policies provide unlimited call-outs and repairs; typically, you’ll need to pay an excess each time you request service.

The coverage for boiler breakdowns can differ significantly between products. Don’t assume that your policy includes unlimited call-outs and repairs; it’s essential to read the fine print. Some policies have limits on claims, often capping reimbursements at £1,000 or £1,500 per claim or per year. They may also restrict the number of call-outs allowed within a 12-month period or impose an excess fee for each service request.

Additionally, you may only be covered for the initial two or three hours of labor, so it’s wise to verify the details beforehand. You certainly don’t want to face a large bill if repairs take an entire day. Furthermore, not all providers guarantee same-day service from an engineer.

If you reside in a home equipped with newer, reliable systems, opting for a basic policy with minimal coverage and payout limits or even self-insuring could suffice.

Conversely, if your boiler is old, unreliable, and noisy, a more comprehensive policy with higher claim limits and numerous annual call-outs would be more suitable—just be sure the policy specifically covers your boiler type.

3 – If your boiler can’t be fixed, you’ll usually be hit with the cost to replace it

Sometimes, an engineer may visit but won’t be able to repair your boiler.

The cost of replacing a boiler can run into thousands of pounds, yet certain insurance policies can provide financial assistance for a replacement. If you’re considering a new policy and your boiler is over seven years old, it’s wise to verify whether it includes any contribution toward a new boiler. Many policies offer between £250 and £750 towards the purchase of a new boiler, or they might cover the entire cost.

If you’re struggling financially and can’t afford a new boiler, there may be options available to assist with the expenses. Refer to the Free Insulation & Boilers guide to check your eligibility. Additionally, explore our Grant Grabbing guide to find out if you qualify for assistance with heating costs.

4 – Cover for older boilers

Many new insurance policies exclude boilers that are over seven years old.

Typically, these plans stipulate that a boiler must be under a specific age, generally seven years, at the time the coverage is purchased. Some providers may also require an inspection of the boiler before they agree to cover it. If your boiler is aging, it might be wise to weigh the cost of insurance against the price of investing in a new boiler.

Even if you secure coverage, there’s a chance that your old boiler won’t qualify for replacement if it fails completely. Additionally, your existing boiler system may not comply with the standards set by your insurer, which could mean you’ll need to spend extra to upgrade your heating system before you can obtain coverage.

5 – Check the type of policy before you buy – insurance protects you if the firm goes bust, a service agreement doesn’t

There are two main types of policies: insurance and service agreements. Although both provide comparable coverage, a significant distinction exists. If an insurance company fails, you are safeguarded by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). In contrast, with a service agreement, your options for recourse are more limited if the company collapses.

The policy or comparison website should clarify which type it is. If you’re uncertain, verify if the provider delivering the coverage (which may differ from the seller) is listed as an insurer on the Financial Conduct Authority’s register.

Here are the primary differences:

Insurance policies

These are safeguarded by the FSCS, which means you have some level of protection if your insurer fails. The FSCS will:

• Attempt to find another insurer to take over your policy. This involves seeking a new provider to assume the responsibilities of your failed insurer or issuing replacement policies.
• Refund 90% of the amount you’ve already paid. If no insurer can be found to take over the business, the FSCS will return 90% of any payments you’ve made. Moreover, if you have ongoing claims or need to submit a claim before a new insurer is identified, the FSCS will ensure these claims are honored.

Additionally, with insurance policies, you have the option to escalate issues to the Financial Ombudsman if you’re dissatisfied with the insurer’s final decision regarding your complaint. However, it’s important to note that the annual service itself is not included in the Financial Ombudsman complaints process.

Service agreements

When it comes to service agreements, your level of protection largely hinges on the financial stability of the provider—specifically, their risk of going bankrupt.

In this context, opting for a monthly payment plan might be wise to minimize potential losses if the company fails. However, if you need to file a claim and the provider goes under before they can send someone to assist you, you would have no options for recourse and would have to hire your own contractor for repairs.

If the company is still operational but you’re facing an unresolved issue, some boiler service agreement providers, like YourRepair and HomeTree, have joined the Dispute Resolution Ombudsman, which can help mediate complaints. It’s important to note, though, that participation in this Ombudsman program is optional.

What is and isn’t covered by a boiler policy?

Boiler insurance policies can differ significantly—ranging from simple plans that primarily assist in getting your boiler repaired after a breakdown to more comprehensive options that also include coverage for issues like burst pipes and blocked drains.

To identify the best policy that fits your needs and budget, it’s important to examine the specifics of what is included in the coverage. Here are some key aspects to consider when evaluating potential claims:

• Annual boiler service – our preferred choices feature a service within our basic coverage options, although not every policy includes this.
• Spare parts – typically, standard components are covered when it comes to general wear and tear, but it’s important to review your policy for any specific exclusions. Additionally, if a repair is necessary, there may be a time limit after which you’ll incur additional fees.
• Boiler replacement – if your boiler is deemed irreparable (often referred to by insurers as “beyond economical repair”), certain insurance policies may cover the cost of a replacement, particularly if your boiler is relatively new (under 7 years old). For older boilers, you might receive a partial contribution toward a new unit, but it’s essential to review the specifics of your policy. Additionally, you are responsible for ensuring your boiler is properly maintained and serviced; failing to do so could result in a denial of coverage.
• Accidental damage – not every policy includes coverage for accidental damage, so it’s important to verify if this aspect matters to you. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, you may also have protection through your home insurance.
• Pre-existing faults – many policies include an initial exclusion period during which claims cannot be made. While these periods differ, our recommended options typically feature exclusion durations of 30 days or fewer.
• Any excess on claims – as is common with many types of insurance, there is usually a predetermined amount that you are required to pay when making a claim. Typically, opting for a policy with a higher excess can lead to reduced monthly premiums, whereas choosing a policy with a lower or no excess will generally result in higher monthly costs.

How to buy a boiler breakdown policy

If you’ve decided a boiler breakdown policy is right for you, here’s how to pick a policy…

1. Decide on the level of cover you want

Numerous standard insurance policies only encompass the boiler itself and its controls, typically providing coverage for parts and labor associated with repairs. However, certain policies extend their coverage to include central heating systems as well. Comprehensive coverage options often add protections for plumbing, drainage, electrical systems, and additional features.

2. Decide on the level of excess per claim

If you believe your boiler is dependable but want some coverage for peace of mind, opting for a policy with a lower monthly premium and a higher excess per claim may be a suitable choice.

On the other hand, if your boiler has shown signs of unreliability in the past or you’ve experienced issues with your central heating or other home systems, you might prefer a policy with a higher monthly premium but a lower excess per claim. This approach could be more economical if you anticipate needing to make multiple claims in a year.

Additionally, it’s important to consider that selecting a policy that encompasses various systems in your home could increase the chances of needing to file a claim each year, resulting in multiple excess payments.

3. Decide if you want an annual boiler service included

Many insurance policies stipulate that you must have a properly maintained boiler that has undergone annual servicing; otherwise, they may deny your claim. The cost of an annual service typically ranges from £60 to £120, so choosing a plan that covers this expense can be a smart way to save. Our top recommendations listed below all incorporate a service as part of their offerings.

4. Check our top picks for cheap policies at different excess levels

We’ve searched for the most affordable policies that satisfy our basic coverage requirements for your home boiler (specifically at your primary residence, excluding unoccupied or rental properties). Each of the selected policies we present will:

• Provide a free annual service as standard.
• Replace or contribute towards a new boiler if its beyond economical repair. This will usually only apply to a well-maintained boiler that’s under seven years old.
• Have no more than a 30-day exclusion period for claims.
• Have generally positive reviews. 

Here are our top recommendations organized by excess levels, as this factor significantly influences the monthly cost. However, each of the three providers gives you the option to adjust the excess amount you’ll pay when making a claim before finalizing your policy.

Top-pick boiler breakdown policies

Prices correct as of 30 July 2024. (1) Discounts are sometimes available for paying the annual premium in full. (2) This policy is a service agreement rather than insurance, so you’ve less protection.

Warning. Most policies give discounted pricing for the first year. However, when it comes time to renew, prices typically rise, and some benefits may no longer be available. Therefore, it’s crucial to mark your calendar to search for a more favorable offer before your policy automatically renews.

5. Use comparison sites if you want a wider choice of features or more options

If the insurers and service providers mentioned don’t offer the coverage you need, or if you have a specific type of boiler that isn’t included, it’s advisable to conduct a comprehensive search using comparison websites like uSwitch, MoneySupermarket, and Gocompare.

Keep in mind that we can’t pre-screen these options for you, so it’s essential to verify that their coverage aligns with your requirements. Pay special attention to the policy duration before you can file a claim, the maximum age of the boiler they cover, and whether any benefits are available for the entire policy term or just during the first year.

How much does a boiler service cost?

The cost of a standard gas boiler service typically ranges from £60 to £120. If you own a more specialized boiler, like an oil or LPG model, you can expect to pay slightly higher rates.

Regular servicing of your boiler, ideally once a year, is essential for ensuring it operates safely and efficiently. It also helps identify potential issues before they develop into more costly repairs.

Deciding whether to invest in a boiler insurance policy is a personal choice. If your boiler is relatively new and well-maintained, you might find that purchasing additional insurance is unnecessary, especially when considering any excess you would have to pay if you made a claim.

On the other hand, if your boiler is older or has a less reliable history, an insurance policy may offer you valuable peace of mind. Take some time to evaluate the annual cost of any policy, the claim excess, and the coverage details to ensure you’re making an informed decision that aligns with your budget.

What should I do if I have a problem with my boiler?

Ensuring safety is paramount when dealing with boilers, particularly regarding gas-related concerns.

If you detect the smell of gas, it’s crucial to contact the National Gas emergency helpline at 0800 111 999. Unlike gas, carbon monoxide is odorless and more challenging to identify, making it essential to have functioning carbon monoxide detectors installed. In the event of a suspected carbon monoxide leak, reach out to the same emergency helpline.

For those with boiler coverage, if your boiler fails or experiences another issue, you should contact your provider to arrange for an engineer visit.

By law, all work performed on your gas boiler—whether installation, servicing, or repairs—must be conducted by a Gas Safe-registered engineer. If you lack boiler cover and encounter a boiler issue, you can find qualified professionals on the Gas Safe Register.

See if you can get cashback on your cheapest insurers

Cashback websites typically allow free membership and offer different payouts for signing up with specific boiler insurance companies. The process works because these sites earn a ‘lead fee’ for directing you to the insurer, and once they receive that fee, they pass a portion of it on to you.

After identifying your most affordable boiler cover provider, make sure to look for any hidden cashback offers. Major platforms like TopCashback* and Quidco* provide cashback incentives for purchases made through their sites, but it’s important to verify that the coverage is identical. Treat cashback as a potential bonus rather than a guaranteed outcome, as there may be instances where the transaction isn’t tracked or the cash isn’t released. For more information, refer to our Top Cashback Sites guide.

Already have a policy? Haggling can save £100s

After discovering the lowest quote, consider negotiating for a better discount with your current insurer.

While haggling isn’t essential—particularly if you’re thinking of switching providers—it can be beneficial if you plan to renew with your existing one. Reach out to your insurer, either by phone or through their online chat, and present the best price you’ve found to see if they can match or beat it. Often, it’s as straightforward as asking. If you’re having trouble getting a better deal, check out our Insurance Haggling Guide for useful tips.

How to complain about your provider

The insurance sector often struggles with a reputation for customer service. A provider that works well for one person might be a nightmare for another.

Frequent issues include delays in claim payouts, unreasonably high fees, or exclusions buried in the fine print. It’s advisable to reach out to your provider initially, but if that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider this option:

You can utilize the free complaint tool Resolver. This resource assists you in organizing your complaint, and if the company is unresponsive, it also guides you in escalating the matter to the free Financial Ombudsman Service.