Why Do-It-Yourself isn’t worth it where gas is involved
15th January 2023
Lodging your first boiler policy claim can be daunting. Fortunately, provided you’ve got the right kind of boiler cover plan in place, this shouldn’t be something you have to do often.
While we think our Sensible Boiler Cover claims process is pretty straightforward, the same can’t be said for all boiler cover providers. Setting aside their hoops and loopholes for a moment, here are some of the common mistakes homeowners make when lodging a boiler claim.
1 Not reporting the issue immediately
When you discover a problem with your boiler, it’s crucial to report it as soon as possible. Delaying this can not only worsen the problem but could also raise questions about the timing and severity of the issue, potentially leading to your claim being denied.
2 Attempting DIY repairs
This is a big no no! While it may be tempting to try and fix the issue yourself to save time or money, doing so is highly dangerous and potentially illegal. Only a GasSafe-registered engineer should work on your boiler. DIY repair attempts could void your boiler cover policy, not to mention put you in danger.
3 Not keeping up with boiler maintenance
Any boiler cover plan worth its salt will have an annual service included as part of the offering. Regular services are the best way to keep your boiler healthy and your home safe. Failing to keep up with regular boiler maintenance, can result in your claim being denied. Make sure you keep a record of your boiler’s service history, as it will provide evidence of proper maintenance if you need to make a claim.
4 Ignoring small issues
Don’t be an ostrich. Small issues can quickly turn into big problems if not addressed. If you notice a minor problem and ignore it, hoping it’ll go away, you risk causing further damage to your boiler. Moreover, if your policy holder finds out that you’ve ignored an issue that led to a larger problem, they might deny your claim.
5 Not understanding your boiler cover plan
Each boiler cover plan or policy has its own set of terms and conditions. Some policies may only cover the boiler and its controls, while others cover the entire central heating system. Misunderstanding your policy’s terms and conditions can lead to unsuccessful claims. Always read your policy documents carefully and make sure that you’ve got the right level of cover arranged for your situation. Nothing worse than being hit with a massive bill when you least expect it.
6 Not paying the policy excess
Most boiler cover plans will come with an excess. The amount depends on what you agreed to when you took out the policy. The excess is basically a contribution towards the cost of the claim. If you delay paying this upon making a claim, or fail to pay, it could result in your claim being denied or delayed.
7 Providing inaccurate information
It seems pretty obvious but misrepresentation or omission of facts can lead to your claim being denied. Your boiler cover provider won’t be easily fooled so tread carefully and make sure the information you give them is accurate when you claim.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help your boiler cover claims process to go smoothly. If you have yourself a Sensible Boiler Cover plan, you’re in luck as we reckon our customer service is second to none. If you’re not with us yet, get in touch to see why Sensible Boiler Cover is one of the most sensible decisions you’ll make about your home this year.
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