In most cases, home insurance covers boilers. This is because boilers are considered a necessary part of the home.
Homeowner’s insurance will cover a broken boiler under certain conditions. If the boiler is damaged by a known peril like a natural disaster or an explosion, then the damages would be covered as long as the peril is covered.
Do house insurance policies vary in their coverage of gas boilers?
Yes, house insurance policies can vary significantly in their coverage of gas boilers. Some policies may include gas boilers as part of the standard buildings or contents insurance, while others may require you to purchase a separate add-on or endorsement for gas boiler coverage. Additionally, some policies may have different limits, deductibles, or exclusions for gas boiler claims. Therefore, it is important to read your policy documents carefully and compare different options before buying house insurance.
Are gas boilers more prone to damage than other types of boilers?
Gas boilers are not necessarily more prone to damage than other types of boilers, but they do have some specific risks that need to be considered. For example, gas boilers can suffer from leaks, corrosion, or blockages that can affect their performance or safety. Gas boilers can also be damaged by external factors such as freezing temperatures, power surges, or vandalism. Moreover, gas boilers have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years of use.
Can gas boilers cause fire hazards that are not covered by house insurance?
Gas boilers can potentially cause fire hazards if they are not installed, maintained, or repaired properly. For instance, faulty wiring, gas leaks, or flammable materials near the boiler can ignite and cause a fire. However, most house insurance policies will cover fire damage caused by gas boilers, unless the fire was caused by negligence, deliberate act, or lack of maintenance on your part. Therefore, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using your gas boiler and to have it serviced regularly by a qualified technician.
What are the benefits of having a gas boiler service plan in addition to house insurance?
A gas boiler service plan is a type of contract that covers the cost of servicing, repairing, or replacing your gas boiler in case of a breakdown or malfunction. A gas boiler service plan can offer several benefits in addition to your house insurance, such as:
- Peace of mind: You can avoid the hassle and stress of dealing with a faulty gas boiler, and enjoy uninterrupted heating and hot water in your home.
- Savings: You can save money on expensive repairs or replacements, and avoid paying excess fees or deductibles on your house insurance claims.
- Safety: You can reduce the risk of gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or fire hazards, and ensure that your gas boiler meets the legal and safety standards.
- Efficiency: You can improve the performance and lifespan of your gas boiler, and lower your energy bills and carbon footprint.
Does house insurance cover gas boilers that are installed by unqualified technicians?
No, house insurance does not cover gas boilers that are installed by unqualified technicians. Gas boilers are complex and potentially dangerous appliances that require professional installation by certified gas engineers. If you hire an unqualified technician to install your gas boiler, you may void your warranty, invalidate your house insurance, and expose yourself to legal and financial liabilities. Furthermore, you may compromise the safety and efficiency of your gas boiler, and increase the risk of damage or injury. Therefore, it is advisable to always check the credentials and reputation of the technician before hiring them and to obtain a gas safety certificate after the installation.
Are there any exclusions or limitations for gas boilers in house insurance contracts?
Yes, there may be some exclusions or limitations for gas boilers in house insurance contracts. Some of the common ones are:
- Wear and tear: House insurance does not cover the normal deterioration or depreciation of your gas boiler due to age or use. You are expected to keep your gas boiler in good working order and replace it when necessary.
- Pre-existing or gradual damage: House insurance does not cover any damage that existed before you bought the policy or that occurred over a long period of time. For example, if your gas boiler was already leaking or corroded when you purchased the policy, or if the damage was caused by rust or limescale buildup, you will not be covered.
- Cosmetic damage: House insurance does not cover any damage that does not affect the functionality or safety of your gas boiler. For example, if your gas boiler has scratches, dents, or stains, you will not be covered.
- Maintenance costs: House insurance does not cover the cost of servicing, cleaning, or tuning your gas boiler. You are responsible for maintaining your gas boiler regularly and following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can house insurance premiums increase if you have a gas boiler in your home?
Possibly, house insurance premiums can increase if you have a gas boiler in your home. This is because gas boilers are considered as high-risk items that can cause or suffer from damage or loss. Therefore, insurers may charge you more to cover the potential claims related to your gas boiler. However, the amount of increase may depend on various factors, such as:
- The type, age, and condition of your gas boiler
- The frequency and severity of your claims history
- The level and scope of your coverage
- The availability and competitiveness of the market
To reduce your house insurance premiums, you can take some steps, such as:
- Shopping around and comparing different quotes and policies
- Installing safety devices such as smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, or fire extinguishers
- Increasing your voluntary excess or deductible
- Bundling your house insurance with other policies such as a car or life insurance
- Asking for discounts or loyalty rewards from your insurer
