Did you know that 49% of boilers break down within the first six years, costing an average of £188 to fix? As a landlord, keeping your rental property’s heating system working is a must. It’s not just a legal duty but also key for your tenants’ comfort and health. Boiler cover for landlords offers peace of mind and protects you financially against sudden breakdowns.
By law, landlords must service their boilers every year. This ensures they work efficiently and safely for tenants. Not keeping up with maintenance can result in expensive repairs and legal trouble. With 63% of people choosing boiler cover for peace of mind and 55% for the yearly service, it’s clear that landlord boiler protection is a smart move.
Key Takeaways:
- Landlords must keep their rental property’s heating system in good condition and have it serviced annually.
- Boiler cover for landlords gives you financial protection and peace of mind against unexpected issues.
- Full boiler cover plans usually include yearly servicing, making it easier to manage maintenance.
- Good boiler upkeep meets gas safety regulations and improves tenant comfort and health.
- Choosing landlord insurance with boiler cover simplifies rental property maintenance and reduces legal risks.
Introduction to Boiler Cover for Landlords
As a landlord, you must keep your rental property in good condition for your tenants. This includes making sure the heating system, especially the boiler, works well. Boiler cover can give you peace of mind and protect your finances from unexpected repair costs.
Importance of Boiler Maintenance for Rental Properties
Keeping your rental property’s boiler maintained is key. An annual service, part of most landlord boiler cover plans, prevents breakdowns and boosts energy efficiency. It also makes your boiler last longer, saving you money on repairs and keeping your tenants happy.
Ignoring boiler maintenance can cause expensive breakdowns and leave your tenants without heat or hot water. This can lead to unhappy tenants, bad reviews, and legal problems. With landlord boiler cover, you can quickly fix any issues with skilled engineers.
Legal Responsibilities of Landlords Regarding Heating Systems
In the UK, landlords must keep the heating systems in their rental properties in good condition. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 require regular checks. These laws ensure your gas appliances, like boilers, are safe.
Not following these laws can lead to fines, legal action, and even jail time. Landlord boiler cover meets these legal needs by offering yearly servicing and gas safety checks. This keeps your property up to standard and respects your tenants’ rights.
| Provider | Monthly Cost | Annual Boiler Service | Landlord Gas Safety Record | TrustPilot Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Your Repair | £11.99 – £31.99 | Included | Provided | 4.7 |
| Hometree | £11.99 – £31.99 | Included | Provided | 4.6 |
| 24/7 Home Rescue | £11.99 – £31.99 | Included | Provided | 4.5 |
Choosing landlord boiler cover protects your property, keeps tenants happy, and avoids legal problems. These plans, costing between £11.99 and £31.99 a month, include vital services like annual servicing and gas safety checks. It’s a wise move for landlords who want to cut down on repair costs and ensure a safe, warm home for their tenants.
What is Boiler Cover?
As a landlord, making sure your tenants are comfortable is key. Keeping their heating system working is a big part of this. Boiler cover is a policy that helps if your tenant’s boiler breaks down. It covers repair costs if the boiler stops working, unless it’s just getting old.
Definition and Key Features of Boiler Cover Policies
Boiler cover policies help landlords avoid the cost of sudden boiler repairs or replacements. They usually include:
- Coverage for the cost of fixing or replacing a broken boiler
- Annual boiler check-ups to keep it running well and avoid breakdowns
- 24/7 emergency help for boiler problems
- Optional coverage for other heating system parts, like radiators and pipes
Some policies also offer extra benefits, such as:
| Policy | First Year Cost | Standard Price |
|---|---|---|
| Landlord’s Plumbing and Drainage Plus | 50p per month (£6 per year) | £1 per month |
| Landlord’s Plumbing and Electrics | £5.50 per month (£66 per year) | £6 per month |
Most boiler cover policies have a 14-day wait before they start covering your boiler. Some policies also need a boiler check-up within 90 days of starting coverage for claims to be accepted.
When picking boiler cover for your rental, think about the costs of repairs and replacements versus the monthly or yearly premiums. With one in five boilers breaking down yearly, a good boiler cover policy can give you peace of mind and protect your finances.
Benefits of Having Boiler Cover as a Landlord
As a landlord, boiler cover for your rental properties brings many benefits. It keeps your investments safe and makes sure your tenants are comfortable. A good landlord insurance policy with boiler cover means you won’t worry about sudden boiler problems.
Cost Savings on Repair and Replacement Expenses
Boiler cover is great for saving money on repairs and replacements. Boiler issues can be very expensive, costing from hundreds to thousands of pounds. With a landlord insurance policy that covers your boiler, you avoid these high costs.
Basic boiler cover can start at just £5 a month. More comprehensive plans, including yearly boiler checks, might be up to £20 or more a month. Even though the cost depends on your boiler’s age and type, it’s worth it for the financial safety and peace of mind it offers. This is especially true in the cold months when your tenants need the boiler for heating and hot water.
Minimising Inconvenience for Tenants
Keeping your tenants happy and comfortable is key as a landlord. Boiler problems can really disrupt their lives, leaving them without heating or hot water. Boiler cover in your insurance policy means repairs are done fast and well.
With boiler cover, you get to call on skilled engineers for quick repairs. This fast action reduces the trouble for your tenants and stops things from getting worse.
| Boiler Cover Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Annual boiler service | Regular servicing can help to identify potential issues before they become major problems, reducing the risk of breakdowns and prolonging the life of the boiler. |
| 24/7 emergency assistance | If your tenants experience a boiler breakdown outside of normal working hours, they can contact the boiler cover provider for immediate assistance, minimising the inconvenience caused. |
| Replacement boiler | In some cases, if your boiler is beyond repair, your boiler cover may include a provision for a replacement boiler, saving you the cost of purchasing a new one outright. |
In conclusion, boiler cover in your landlord insurance offers many benefits. It saves you money on repairs and replacements and keeps your tenants happy. By choosing comprehensive boiler cover, you protect your properties and make sure your tenants are comfortable all year.
Boiler Cover for Landlords: Do You Need It?
As a landlord, thinking about boiler cover for your property is crucial. Boiler emergencies can happen suddenly, putting your tenants’ safety and comfort at risk. Having the right cover can ease your worries and protect your finances.
Boiler cover for landlords has many benefits. It covers broken boilers, heating controls, and the main heating system. If there’s a heating system breakdown, your insurance can pay up to £2,000 for each emergency. This includes call-out fees, labour, parts, materials, and VAT. You can also make as many claims as you need without limits.
Consider your boiler’s age and condition when thinking about cover. Modern boilers often have warranties up to 10 years, with options for longer warranties from approved installers. But, older boilers might cost more to cover because they’re more likely to break down.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Annual boiler service | Maintains warranty and ensures optimal boiler function |
| Landlord Gas Safety Record | Ensures legal compliance with gas appliance inspections |
| Central heating cover | Encompasses boilers, controls, radiators, pipework, and cylinders |
| 24/7 helpline | Provides support and assistance whenever needed |
| Unlimited call-outs | Offers peace of mind and financial protection |
Choosing comprehensive home emergency cover is smart for your rented property. With a reliable provider like Saga, you get policies from Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd. This means high quality and service.
Over 33,000 landlords already enjoy home emergency and boiler cover, starting at £14.18 a month. With a 4.8/5 rating from 39,800 reviews for landlord boiler cover, many landlords trust these policies.
Whether or not to get landlord boiler cover depends on your situation and how you feel about risk. But, it can save you money, reduce hassle for tenants, and ensure tenants’ safety. It’s a smart move for any careful landlord.
Do I need boiler cover as a tenant?
As a tenant, you usually don’t need to buy boiler cover for your rental. This is the landlord’s job, as they must keep the heating system and boiler working well. But, knowing what boiler cover means and its impact on you is key.
Landlords often get boiler cover to shield themselves from unexpected breakdowns and repair costs. This cover includes regular servicing, general plumbing upkeep, and emergency help. So, if your landlord has boiler cover, they can fix heating system problems fast, keeping you comfortable.
You don’t need to buy boiler cover, but telling your landlord about any heating or boiler issues is important. This lets them claim on their cover and get repairs done. If your landlord gives you their boiler cover provider’s details, you can report problems and set up repairs yourself, making things easier.
Some landlords might add the cost of boiler cover to your rent. This means you’re helping pay for it indirectly through your rent. But, this way, you get reliable heating and hot water without worrying about surprise repair bills.
To sum up, tenants usually don’t need to buy boiler cover. But, having a landlord with this cover is good for you. It keeps your heating system running well, and any problems get fixed quickly. This keeps you comfortable and happy during your stay.
Types of Boiler Cover Policies for Landlords
As a landlord, you have many options for boiler cover policies. These policies help you keep energy bills down and make sure your heating system works well. By choosing the right cover, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your tenants happy.
Basic Boiler Cover Plans
Basic boiler cover plans cover your boiler and its parts like the thermostat and programmer. They include an annual check-up and fix for your gas boiler and other parts. This keeps your boiler running efficiently, cuts down your gas bills, and keeps your rental property affordable.
| Plan Features | Basic Boiler Cover |
|---|---|
| Annual boiler service | ✓ |
| Repairs to gas boiler and controls | ✓ |
| Thermostat and programmer repairs | ✓ |
| Gas Safety Certificate | ✓ |
Comprehensive Boiler and Central Heating Cover
For more coverage, landlords can choose comprehensive policies. These cover your boiler, controls, and your whole gas central heating system. This includes radiators and hot water cylinders. With this policy, you can relax knowing your heating system is fully protected, saving you from expensive repairs and keeping your tenants comfortable.
| Plan Features | Comprehensive Cover |
|---|---|
| Annual boiler service | ✓ |
| Repairs to gas boiler and controls | ✓ |
| Thermostat and programmer repairs | ✓ |
| Gas Safety Certificate | ✓ |
| Central heating system repairs | ✓ |
| Radiator and hot water cylinder coverage | ✓ |
When picking between basic and comprehensive boiler cover, think about your boiler’s age, your heating system’s condition, and your budget. Choosing the right policy helps you manage your energy bills, lowers living costs, and keeps your tenants happy.
What is Typically Covered by Landlord Boiler Cover?
As a landlord, knowing what’s in boiler cover for landlords is key. It makes sure your rental’s heating system is well-protected. These policies usually cover many common boiler faults and breakdowns. This gives you peace of mind and helps protect your finances.
Common Boiler Faults and Breakdowns Included
Most landlord boiler cover policies protect against these boiler problems:
- Boiler breakdown due to expansion vessel failure
- Heat exchanger cracking or rupturing
- Valve failures
- Leaking seals
- Circuit board faults
If your boiler breaks down, your cover will usually pay for repairs or a new boiler, up to a limit. This includes:
- Call-out charges
- Labour costs
- Replacement parts
- VAT
Some policies offer extra benefits, like:
- Annual boiler servicing to keep it efficient and prevent breakdowns
- Gas safety checks to meet legal standards
- Emergency accommodation for tenants if the boiler fails and the property is not safe
Remember, each policy has its own limits and exclusions. Always check your policy’s details. Following boiler maintenance tips, like annual servicing and fixing issues quickly, can prevent expensive repairs.
| Landlord Boiler Care Plan | Monthly Cost | Call-out Fee | Annual Boiler Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiler Care | From £17.45 | £60 or £95 per fault | Included |
| Central Heating Care | From £19.00 | £60 or £95 per fault | Included |
| Home Care | From £24.45 | £60 or £95 per fault | Included |
When picking a boiler cover policy, think about the monthly cost, call-out fees, and if it includes an annual service. A good boiler cover can save you money on repairs and meet your legal duties as a landlord. It also keeps your tenants happy and reduces empty periods.
Always check your boiler cover policy and think about how often should a boiler be replaced. Being proactive and informed helps protect your investment and keeps your tenants comfortable.
What is Not Covered by Landlord Boiler Cover?
Landlord boiler cover offers peace of mind and financial protection for property owners. But, it’s key to know what’s not covered. These policies often exclude certain situations, such as:
- Damage caused by wear and tear or general aging of the boiler
- Issues that are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee
- Boilers older than seven years, as many policies have age restrictions
- Instances where the terms of the maintenance agreement have been breached
- Removal of sludge or scale buildup and any resulting damage, if previously identified as a potential problem
It’s vital for landlords to check their boiler cover policy well. Modern, energy-efficient gas boilers might get full coverage. But, older boilers might not. Some policies also limit the number of claims or emergency call-outs per year.
Landlord insurance doesn’t cover routine maintenance or servicing of the boiler. This is the owner’s job. But, landlords must do annual gas safety checks and give tenants a valid gas safety certificate within 28 days.
| Exclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| Wear and Tear | Damage caused by normal use and aging of the boiler |
| Manufacturer’s Warranty | Issues covered under the boiler’s existing warranty or guarantee |
| Boiler Age | Many policies do not cover boilers older than seven years |
| Breach of Agreement | Instances where the terms of the maintenance agreement have been violated |
| Sludge and Scale Buildup | Removal of buildup and resulting damage, if previously identified as a potential issue |
Knowing what’s not covered in landlord boiler cover helps owners make smart choices. Regular servicing and quick action on problems can prevent expensive repairs. This ensures tenants stay comfortable.
Choosing the Right Boiler Cover Provider
As a landlord, picking the right boiler cover provider is key to keeping your rental property’s heating system in top shape. With many options out there, it’s vital to think about a few things before you decide.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Policy
When looking at different boiler cover policies, keep these points in mind to find the best one for you:
- Level of cover: Decide if a basic or comprehensive plan is right for your boiler’s age and condition.
- Cost and excess fees: Check the yearly costs and any excess fees to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
- Provider reputation and customer service: Look into the provider’s history and read reviews to see how reliable and quick they are.
- Additional benefits: Search for policies that offer extra perks like an annual boiler service or a Gas Safety Certificate to save money later.
Think about your boiler’s age when picking a plan. For boilers 7 years old or newer, a standard plan might be enough. But older boilers might need a more premium plan that covers boiler replacement. Some plans limit how many times you can call for help in a set time. So, find providers like PlusHeat that offer unlimited callouts on all plans.
Boiler cover providers have plans for different types of boilers, like gas, electric, and more. Many also offer custom plans to fit your needs as a landlord.
| Plan Type | Average Annual Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | £150 – £200 | Covers boiler repairs and breakdowns |
| Comprehensive | £250 – £350 | Includes boiler repairs, annual service, and central heating cover |
| Premium | £400+ | Offers boiler replacement, plumbing, and home emergency cover |
A survey in May 2023 found the average yearly cost for boiler cover was £270. Costs vary with the coverage you choose. While 26% of people with boiler cover had no excess fee, a £0 excess might make the policy more expensive than one with a £60 excess if you need to use it.
Some policies won’t cover boilers over 15 years old and might have repair cost limits. Policies with more coverage are usually pricier. Switching providers or negotiating prices can help save money.
Choosing a boiler cover policy that includes an annual service is a smart move. Regular servicing keeps your boiler running well and safely. By looking at your options and these factors, you can pick the right policy for your rental property’s heating system. This will give you and your tenants peace of mind.
Can I take out boiler cover for multiple properties?
Managing multiple properties as a landlord can be tough, especially with boilers. Luckily, many UK boiler cover providers offer solutions for landlords. This makes it easier and cheaper to keep your rental properties’ boilers working well.
When looking for boiler cover, find a provider that includes an annual gas safety check, regular servicing, and quick repairs. Choosing a policy for multiple properties helps you manage your boilers better. It also ensures your tenants have reliable heating and hot water.
Benefits of boiler cover for multiple properties include:
- Less work, as you only deal with one provider for all your properties
- Possible discounts for insuring several boilers together
- Uniform service and support for all your rental properties
- Peace of mind with boiler breakdown or malfunction cover
When comparing boiler cover options, think about coverage, call-out fees, and customer service reputation. Also, check if the policy includes an annual boiler service and gas safety certificate. These are legal for landlords in the UK.
| Provider | Coverage | Annual Boiler Service | Gas Safety Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Gas | Up to 10 properties | Included | Included |
| HomeServe | Multiple properties | Included | Available as an add-on |
| 24|7 Home Rescue | Unlimited properties | Included | Included |
Boiler cover for your rental properties ensures your tenants have efficient heating and hot water. It also lowers the risk of surprise repair costs. With the right provider and policy, you get peace of mind and easier property management. This lets you focus on growing your rental portfolio and giving your tenants a great living experience.
Landlord Boiler Cover vs. General Landlord Insurance
As a landlord, keeping your rental property safe and your tenants comfortable is key. General landlord insurance covers your property, including buildings, contents, and liability. But, it might not cover your boiler and central heating. That’s where landlord boiler cover comes in, offering extra protection for your property.
Landlord boiler cover is a special insurance for your boiler and heating system. It gives you peace of mind by providing quick repairs if your boiler breaks down. This can reduce inconvenience for your tenants and save you money.
Consider these statistics:
- Nearly one in every 3 boilers up to six years old breaks down, as reported by Which in 2006.
- Landlords often face significant costs to repair boilers, averaging around £200-300 for component replacements like the PCB.
- Landlord boiler cover provides coverage for sudden and complete breakdown of the boiler, heating controls, and main heating system, with a reimbursement of up to £2,000 per emergency for call out, labour, parts, materials, and VAT.
When looking at landlord boiler cover options, you’ll see different levels of coverage at various prices. Here’s a quick comparison of some popular providers:
| Provider | Monthly Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Npower | £24 | Includes free CP12 gas landlords safety check |
| Homeserve | From £16.67 | One of the cheapest options available |
| British Gas | From £19 | Covers unlimited call-outs, parts, and labour |
Experts like Martin Lewis suggest saving money instead of buying monthly boiler insurance. But, your finances and the risk of unexpected, costly repairs might affect your choice. Landlord boiler cover can offer peace of mind and financial protection for many landlords.
When picking a landlord boiler cover policy, read the terms and conditions carefully. Most policies cover sudden breakdowns but might not cover partial failures or issues from design faults or installation errors. Knowing what your policy covers helps you make a choice that meets your and your tenants’ needs.
Making a Claim on Your Landlord Boiler Cover
As a landlord, keeping your rental property in good condition is key. Boiler breakdowns can cause stress and cost a lot. But, with the right boiler cover, you can rest easy knowing you’re ready for emergencies.
If your boiler breaks down, act fast to keep your tenants happy and safe. Here’s how to claim on your boiler cover:
Step-by-Step Guide to the Claims Process
- Contact a Gas Safe registered heating engineer to check the issue and give a report on why the boiler broke down.
- Get a quote or invoice for fixing or replacing the boiler from the engineer.
- Make sure you have the latest gas safety certificate for the property.
- Call your boiler cover provider to start the claim process and give them the needed documents (the engineer’s report, quote/invoice, and gas safety certificate).
- Your provider will look at the claim to see if it’s covered by your policy.
- If approved, your provider will pay you back for the costs, minus any excess.
Boiler problems are emergencies and should be fixed quickly to keep your tenants safe and comfortable. A good landlord boiler cover policy helps reduce the cost of sudden breakdowns. It also keeps your rental property safe and liveable for your tenants.
| Month | Percentage of Boiler Breakdowns |
|---|---|
| January | 15.6% |
| December | 12.01% |
As a landlord, knowing your legal duties about heating systems is vital. Not keeping boilers safe can lead to fines and legal trouble. It also risks your tenants’ safety. By getting a good landlord boiler cover and following the claim process, you protect your property and keep your tenants safe.
Maintaining Your Boiler and Heating System
As a landlord, keeping your rental property’s boiler and heating system in good shape is key. Regular checks and upkeep keep your tenants safe and comfortable. They also make sure you meet the law. A good maintenance plan cuts down on expensive repairs and makes your boiler last longer.
Importance of Regular Servicing and Maintenance
Getting your boiler checked every year by a Gas Safe engineer is a must for many reasons:
- It spots problems early, stopping them from getting worse
- It keeps your boiler running efficiently, saving on bills
- It keeps your tenants safe by stopping gas leaks and carbon monoxide risks
- It follows the law, like the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
On top of yearly services, here are more tips for boiler care:
- Teach your tenants how to use and look after the boiler and heating right
- Tell tenants to tell you about any problems or worries quickly
- Fix repairs and breakdowns within 24 hours to keep up with the law
- Think about swapping old boilers (15+ years) for new, efficient ones from good brands
Regular boiler checks and upkeep bring many benefits:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduce repair costs | Regular checks spot small problems early, avoiding big repair bills |
| Minimise tenant disruption | Boilers that work well don’t break down often, keeping tenants happy |
| Protect your investment | Regular servicing makes your boiler last longer, saving money over time |
| Ensure legal compliance | You meet your duties under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and Gas Safety Regulations 1998 |
For landlords, looking after your boiler is smart and necessary. By keeping up with yearly services and good maintenance, you offer a safe, warm home for your tenants. You also protect your investment.
Conclusion
As a landlord, getting boiler cover is a smart move. It gives you peace of mind and protects your property. Even though it’s not a must, having a good landlord boiler protection plan is key. It ensures your tenants live in a safe and warm home.
Choosing the right boiler cover for landlords depends on your needs and budget. Policies vary, offering everything from basic to full home emergency services. Think about your boiler’s age and how many properties you manage to pick the best plan for your rental property maintenance.
Deciding on landlord boiler protection is a smart way to meet your landlord legal responsibilities and follow gas safety regulations. It helps you keep good relations with tenants, avoids legal issues, and keeps your investment safe. Always check your cover regularly and keep up with new laws and safety tips.
