Landlord Boiler Cover: A Smart Investment

Keeping your tenants happy and your properties well-maintained is key to being a successful landlord. Boiler breakdowns are not only a major inconvenience but can also lead to significant, unexpected costs. That's where a landlord boiler cover plan comes in.

Often referred to as a boiler breakdown cover, this type of plan can help protect your finances if a boiler on your property develops a fault or stops working entirely. With a cover plan in place, you may be eligible for assistance with the cost of a call-out, labor, and new parts required to get the boiler fixed. Many plans also include a complimentary annual service visit.

Is Landlord Boiler Cover Necessary?

As a landlord, you are legally obligated to cover the cost of maintaining and repairing boilers in your rental properties. It's your responsibility to arrange for an engineer to address any issues, as a standard boiler cover plan is typically not an option for your tenants.

Before committing to a new policy, it's wise to check your existing coverage. Your boiler might already be covered under your landlord insurance policy or a manufacturer's warranty, especially if it's a newer model. An extended warranty may also apply if the boiler was installed by an accredited professional.

If you don't have any existing coverage, a specialized landlord boiler plan is highly recommended. It provides peace of mind and allows you to give tenants permission to call out an engineer directly without you needing to travel to the property, which is especially convenient if you live far away.

The cost of your policy will typically be based on factors like the make and age of the boiler. You can expect higher premiums for boilers over 15 years old due to the increased risk of a breakdown. Additionally, if your boiler has a pre-existing fault, some providers may have specific terms regarding coverage for those conditions.

Beyond the Manufacturer's Warranty

While a manufacturer's warranty is valuable, it only protects you for a specific period of time and often has limitations. It may not cover problems caused by damage to other parts of your central heating system or issues outside of the warranty's timeframe. A dedicated boiler cover plan can protect you from these unpredictable expenses, but always be sure to check the policy terms to understand what is covered.

Choosing the Right Cover

Landlord boiler cover plans vary in their specific details. When you compare policies, be sure to look at key factors like:

• The excess you are required to pay per claim.

• The number of call-outs permitted per year.

• Whether the emergency helpline is available 24/7.

• If you can arrange evening or weekend visits.

Some plans may have unlimited call-outs, while others have a set limit. It's crucial to compare different providers to find a plan that perfectly fits your needs before making a commitment.

The Benefits of Landlord Boiler Cover

Opting for a landlord boiler cover plan offers significant peace of mind and simplifies the repair process. With cover, you can avoid unexpected, high-cost repairs and ensure your boiler is looked after. Many plans also include a complimentary annual service, which is essential for maintaining your manufacturer's warranty.

Additionally, a cover plan often gives you direct access to a dedicated helpline, and some policies allow for an unlimited number of call-outs, ensuring you're always supported. Faulty boiler controls are also typically included in the cover.

Landlord Boiler vs. Central Heating Cover

While a boiler is a central part of your heating system, there's a key difference between these two types of cover.

• Landlord Boiler Cover focuses specifically on the boiler and its immediate controls.

• Central Heating Cover (sometimes called boiler and heating cover) extends protection to your entire central heating system, including radiators, pipework, and other components.

When choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand which parts of your system will be protected.

Landlord vs. Homeowner Boiler Cover

Both landlord and homeowner boiler cover plans typically provide repairs, access to engineers and a helpline, and an annual service. However, the main difference lies in one key document: the Landlord Gas Safety Record (CP12).

Landlord policies are designed to include this legal document, which is required by law to prove that the gas appliances in a rental property are inspected annually for safety.

What is a Landlord Gas Safety Inspection (CP12)?

A Gas Safe registered engineer is the only professional legally permitted to test and service gas appliances in your property. The purpose of this inspection is to ensure all appliances, from boilers to cooktops, are operating correctly and safely.

During the check, the engineer will:

• Confirm all gas appliances are set up correctly and burn gas properly.

• Verify that appliances are suitable for the rooms they are in and are securely fitted.

• Check that the gas pipework is in good condition.

• Ensure an adequate and permanent air supply is available in rooms with gas appliances.

• Confirm safety devices are working correctly.

• Make sure all flues, chimneys, and vents are functioning properly.

After a thorough visual inspection and a final leak test of the pipework, the engineer will issue a CP12 certificate, confirming the work has been completed and the property is safe.

Understanding "Excess"

An excess is the amount you pay towards the cost of an engineer's visit. Some landlord cover packages include this excess fee in your monthly payment. Others may charge a separate fee (often around £60) when an engineer is called out to your property.

Switching Providers

Switching your landlord boiler cover is generally straightforward, though you may face a cancellation fee if you end your current contract before it expires (typically after 12 months). If you're willing to pay the fee, you're free to switch providers to find a better deal.

Ready to find a plan that works for you? Check out our range of care plans today and give yourself and your tenants greater peace of mind.