Understanding the exclusions and limitations of boiler cover plans

Boiler cover plans or insurance policies can be a real lifesaver when you face unexpected boiler breakdowns or issues. However, not all policies cover all possible scenarios, and understanding the exclusions and limitations can save you from nasty surprises down the line.

This handy article will guide you through some common exclusions and limitations found with boiler cover.

1 Age and model of boiler

Many boiler cover plans exclude coverage for boilers over a certain age, typically around 15 years. That’s because older boilers tend to break down more frequently and parts may be more difficult or expensive to source. Similarly, some policies exclude certain models or brands, especially if parts are known to be expensive or hard to come by.

2 Pre-existing issues

If your boiler has pre-existing faults or issues at the time of purchasing the policy, these will usually not be covered. Boiler cover or insurance is designed to cover unexpected breakdowns, not known issues. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your boiler well-maintained and to fix any issues promptly.

3 Lack of regular servicing

Most boiler cover providers require policyholders to have their boiler serviced annually by a certified engineer. Failure to do so can result in a claim being rejected. Regular servicing not only ensures your boiler is operating efficiently but also helps to identify potential problems before they lead to a breakdown.

4 Scale damage

Damage caused by scale build-up, rust, or corrosion is often not covered by boiler cover policies. These issues are considered preventable through regular maintenance and servicing.

5 Damage from DIY repairs

If damage is caused by attempted repairs by someone who isn’t a certified engineer, your boiler cover provider might not cover the cost of subsequent repairs. Always call a professional if your boiler needs to be fixed.

6 Beyond economical repair (BER)

If your boiler is old or the cost of repair is more than the price of a new boiler, your cover provider might declare it ‘Beyond Economical Repair’ (BER). In this case, the insurer might contribute towards the cost of a new boiler, but this will depend on the terms of your policy.

7 Accidental damage

Not all boiler cover packages cover accidental damage. Check your policy documents to see if accidental damage is covered. If it’s not, and you feel this is important, consider looking for a plan that includes this cover.

8 Boiler cover excess

Most cover plans have an excess, which is the amount you’ll need to contribute towards a claim. While not an exclusion, it is a limitation to be aware of. The amount of excess can vary, so be sure to check this before purchasing a plan.

To sum up, understanding the exclusions and limitations of your boiler cover plan is crucial to avoiding unexpected costs and complications. Always read your policy documents thoroughly and don’t hesitate to ask your provider if anything is unclear. By doing so, you can ensure that you get the coverage you need and peace of mind knowing your boiler is protected.

We have really clear terms and conditions for Sensible Boiler Cover packages, so give us a call today if you have questions about any of the above.

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