What is boiler cover?
Boiler cover is a protection plan that helps with the cost and stress of unexpected boiler faults. Depending on your chosen plan, it can include engineer call-outs, diagnosis, eligible repairs, replacement parts and labour.
Repair protection
Boiler cover gives you a clearer route to help if your boiler stops working or develops a fault.
Check your existing warranty first
Before buying boiler cover, check whether your boiler is already protected by a manufacturer warranty, home insurance add-on or existing service agreement. Also check any warranty conditions, such as annual servicing.
Call-outs
Boiler cover can help arrange an engineer when your boiler breaks down or stops working properly.
Parts and labour
Depending on your plan, eligible parts and labour may be included within your cover.
Peace of mind
A monthly plan can make boiler problems feel easier to manage, especially during winter.
What does boiler cover include?
Boiler cover is usually focused on your boiler and boiler controls. It is designed to help when the boiler develops a fault, breaks down unexpectedly or leaves you without heating or hot water.
-
✓
Engineer call-outs
Access to engineer support when your boiler needs diagnosis or repair.
-
✓
Boiler breakdown repairs
Help with eligible boiler faults and breakdowns, subject to your plan terms and limits.
-
✓
Parts and labour
Many plans include eligible parts and labour, depending on the level of cover selected.
-
✓
Boiler controls
Some plans include boiler controls such as thermostats, timers and programmers.
-
✓
Annual service options
Some boiler cover plans include an annual boiler service, while others may offer it separately.
Do I need boiler cover?
Boiler cover is worth considering if you want a more predictable way to manage boiler repair costs. It can be useful for homeowners and landlords who do not want to arrange every repair from scratch when something goes wrong.
It can be especially helpful for older boilers, properties with heavy heating use, landlords managing tenants, or anyone who would struggle with a sudden repair bill.
-
✓
For homeowners
It can reduce the stress of finding an engineer and paying for unexpected boiler repairs.
-
✓
For landlords
It can make heating and hot water issues easier to manage when tenants report problems.
-
✓
For older boilers
Older boilers can be more likely to develop faults, so cover can help reduce repair uncertainty.
How to choose the right boiler cover
Boiler cover packages can look similar at first, but the details matter. A low monthly cost may come with a higher excess, lower repair limit or more exclusions.
-
✓
Check the monthly price
Make sure the plan fits your budget and check whether the price is fixed for the plan term.
-
✓
Check the excess
The excess is the amount you pay when making a claim or arranging an engineer visit.
-
✓
Check call-out rules
Look for any limits on the number of engineer visits or repairs allowed each year.
-
✓
Check parts and labour
Confirm whether parts, labour and diagnosis are included or charged separately.
-
✓
Check the boiler age rules
Some providers have restrictions for older boilers or boilers where parts are difficult to source.
Boiler cover vs central heating cover
Boiler cover and central heating cover sound similar, but they are not always the same. Boiler cover usually focuses on the boiler itself, while heating cover is normally broader.
Boiler cover
Usually focuses on the boiler and controls, such as the thermostat, timer or programmer.
Central heating cover
Usually includes wider heating system parts such as radiators, pipework and heating components, depending on the plan.
Does boiler cover include an annual service?
Some boiler cover plans include an annual service, while others focus only on breakdown repairs. An annual service is useful because it helps check the boiler is safe, clean and working correctly.
Servicing can also help keep manufacturer warranties valid. If your boiler is under warranty, check whether an annual service is required and keep proof of completed servicing.
What is an excess fee?
An excess fee is the amount you pay towards a claim or engineer visit. Some boiler cover plans have a lower monthly price but a higher excess, while others may cost more each month but reduce the cost when you need help.
When comparing cover, look at the monthly cost and the excess together. Also check whether the excess applies per claim, per visit or per repair.
Can I switch boiler cover providers?
Yes, you can usually switch boiler cover providers, but you should check your current contract first. Some plans run for a fixed term and may include cancellation fees or notice periods.
Before switching, compare the monthly price, excess, support hours, annual service inclusion, repair limits and exclusions. Make sure the new plan actually gives you the level of cover you need.
Is boiler cover the same as boiler insurance?
People often use the terms in a similar way, but the exact product can vary. Always check the plan documents so you know what is included, excluded and how claims are handled.
Does boiler cover include radiators?
Basic boiler cover usually focuses on the boiler and controls. Radiators and pipework are more likely to be included under wider central heating cover.
Does boiler cover include an annual boiler service?
Some plans include an annual service and others do not. Check the plan details before signing up.
Can landlords get boiler cover?
Yes. Landlord boiler cover is designed for rental properties and can help landlords manage boiler faults and tenant heating issues.
Is boiler cover worth it for an older boiler?
It can be worth considering because older boilers may be more likely to break down. However, check boiler age limits, parts availability and exclusions before choosing a plan.
Compare boiler cover options
MyHomeCover offers simple boiler, heating and home emergency cover options for homeowners and landlords.