Home emergency cover explained
Where a link is marked *, it is a partner link — we receive commission at no extra cost to you. Links without a * earn us nothing. How we make money.
Quick answer: Home emergency policies pay for urgent call-outs on boilers, plumbing and locks — check annual limits and excess before relying on them instead of savings.
Home emergency cover is often sold as a bank account perk or standalone policy for urgent call-outs on boilers, plumbing and locks. The FCA regulates the insurance aspects. This guide explains typical cover, exclusions and when self-insuring may be cheaper.
Boiler cover
Many policies require an annual boiler service to remain valid, so keep service records and book inspections on time. Missing a service can give the insurer grounds to reject a breakdown claim.
Replacement limits may cap at around £750, while a full new boiler installation can cost £2,000 or more. You would need to fund any shortfall above the policy limit yourself.
What's not covered
Pre-existing faults, sludge damage from lack of servicing, gradual leaks and cosmetic issues are usually excluded. Home emergency cover is for sudden failures, not problems you have ignored for months.
Tenants usually rely on their landlord's responsibility for the structure and heating system. Taking out your own home emergency cover is rarely appropriate unless you own the property.
Alternatives
Self-insuring by saving the monthly premium equivalent into an emergency fund gives you more flexibility if your boiler is reliable and relatively new. You keep the money if you never need to claim.
Check whether your home insurance already includes accidental damage or a home emergency add-on before paying for duplicate cover through a packaged bank account. Duplicating cover means paying twice for the same protection.
Common questions
Is home emergency cover mandatory?
No — it is an optional add-on or packaged account perk. Buildings insurance is required by mortgage lenders, but home emergency cover is a separate product you can choose to buy or skip.
Will claiming affect renewal?
Frequent claims may increase premiums on renewal. Unlike car insurance, there is no no-claims bonus, but insurers still track your claim history when setting next year's price.
Does it cover tenants?
The landlord is usually responsible for the structure and heating system in a rented property. Tenants typically insure their own contents and rely on the landlord to arrange boiler cover for the building.