Washing Machine Insurance: Should You Take Out Extra Cover?

This guide supports our in-depth article Is Washing Machine Insurance Worth It? Here’s the Breakdown, where we explore costs, comparisons, and practical examples in more detail. Reading both articles together can help you understand how washing machine insurance works and whether taking out extra cover may be suitable for your circumstances.

Washing machines are a core part of daily life in many households. Because they are used so frequently, breakdowns can be disruptive and inconvenient. When faults occur outside a manufacturer’s warranty, repair costs can also be unpredictable. These factors often lead people to consider whether washing machine insurance, sometimes described as extra cover, is worth having.

This article explains what washing machine insurance typically covers, how it differs from warranties, and the key points to consider before deciding whether to take out additional protection. It is written to provide clear, factual information, without sales pressure, and in line with FCA expectations for fair and transparent consumer communications.

Understanding Washing Machine Insurance

Washing machine insurance is designed to help cover the cost of unexpected mechanical or electrical breakdowns. Instead of paying the full cost of repairs when a fault occurs, you usually pay a monthly premium and, in some cases, an excess when making a claim.

Most policies are intended to cover sudden and unforeseen faults. For example, electrical failures or motor issues may be included, while gradual wear and tear or deterioration over time is typically excluded. The purpose of this type of cover is not to extend the life of an appliance indefinitely but to help manage the financial impact of unplanned repair costs.

Cover may be arranged for a single washing machine or as part of a multi-appliance policy. The most appropriate option depends on how many appliances you wish to protect and how important they are to your household routine.

Why Some Households Consider Extra Cover

One reason people look at washing machine insurance is the rising cost of repairs. Modern washing machines often include electronic components, sensors, and model-specific parts that can require specialist engineers.

Repair costs may include:

• Engineer call-out charges
• Labour costs
• Replacement parts specific to the appliance model

In some cases, the cost of a single repair can be significant, particularly for newer or higher-spec machines. Insurance does not remove repair costs entirely, but it can spread them over time through regular premiums rather than one-off payments.

Who Might Consider Washing Machine Insurance

Washing machine insurance is not suitable for every household. Whether taking out extra cover makes sense depends on individual circumstances.

It may be suitable if:

• Your washing machine is essential to daily household use
• The appliance is relatively modern and costly to replace
• You prefer predictable monthly costs
• The manufacturer’s warranty has ended or is about to expire

It may be less suitable if:

• The washing machine is older or inexpensive
• You are comfortable paying for repairs as they arise
• You already have similar cover through another policy

Considering these factors can help avoid purchasing cover that does not meet your needs.

Washing Machine Insurance and Manufacturer Warranties

Most new washing machines come with a manufacturer warranty, usually lasting one or two years depending upon the brand. Extended warranties may also be available at an additional cost and often focus on manufacturing defects rather than general breakdowns.

Once the warranty period ends, responsibility for repairs usually falls to the homeowner or tenant. Washing machine insurance may offer an option for ongoing protection beyond this point.

Unlike some warranties, insurance policies may allow multiple claims during the policy term, subject to limits, exclusions, and conditions set out in the policy wording.

What Washing Machine Insurance Typically Covers

While cover varies between providers, washing machine insurance policies often include:

• Mechanical breakdown
• Electrical breakdown
• Labour and call-out charges
• Like-for-like replacement if the item is non-repairable

Some policies may also include accidental damage, subject to specific terms and conditions. Claims are usually limited by a maximum value per claim or per year, often linked to the cost of a like-for-like replacement.

It is important to review policy documentation carefully to understand what is included.

Common Exclusions to Consider

As with most insurance products, washing machine insurance includes exclusions. These commonly include:

• Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
• Cosmetic damage such as scratches or dents
• Pre-existing faults
• Damage caused by misuse or neglect
• Appliances over a specified age

Understanding exclusions in advance helps set realistic expectations and reduces the risk of disappointment when making a claim.

How Claims Typically Work

Although claims processes vary by provider, they often follow a similar structure:

• The fault is reported.
• The fault is reviewed by the insurer or underwriter to confirm whether the claim is eligible.
• The claim is formally assessed.
• An engineer attends to diagnose the issue.
• After attending to the appliance, the engineer provides a report to the insurer. The report is reviewed, and in some cases the claim may be declined.
• Further action is taken, and repair or replacement is arranged where appropriate.

Engineer visits are an important part of the process, as they help ensure faults are assessed accurately and in line with policy terms.

FCA Regulation and Consumer Duty

In the UK, insurance providers are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and must comply with the Consumer Duty. This requires firms to act in good faith, avoid foreseeable harm, and support customers in making informed decisions.

In practice, this means:

• Clear and balanced communication
• Products designed to meet genuine consumer needs
• Transparent pricing, excesses, and exclusions
• Ongoing customer support throughout the policy term

FCA regulation helps ensure that information is presented clearly, but consumers should still review policy details carefully.

Insurance vs Paying for Repairs Yourself

Some households prefer to pay for washing machine repairs as they occur. This approach can work if breakdowns are infrequent and affordable. However, repair costs can be unpredictable, and a single major fault may exceed the cost of several months of premiums.

Washing machine insurance does not guarantee savings every year. Its value lies in managing risk and reducing uncertainty, rather than ensuring the lowest possible cost in all situations.

Multi-Appliance Policies and Extra Cover

Multi-appliance policies may reduce the cost per appliance when several items are covered under one plan. These policies often include washing machines alongside dishwashers, ovens, and other household appliances.

This type of extra cover may suit households that rely heavily on multiple appliances and prefer a single point of contact for repairs.

Should You Take Out Extra Cover?

Whether washing machine insurance is right for you depends on how you use your appliance, its age and value, and your approach to managing unexpected costs.

Extra cover may be helpful if avoiding disruption and large one-off repair bills is a priority. It may be less relevant if you are comfortable paying for repairs as needed or replacing the appliance when it fails.

The key is choosing cover that is transparent, fairly priced, and appropriate for your circumstances.

Important Information

This content is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial advice or a personal recommendation. Policy terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits apply. Always read the full policy documentation before making a decision. Consumers should assess their own needs and circumstances before purchasing insurance.

Disclaimer

● Appliance insurance cover is valuable, but it has limitations. Understanding the hidden risks in your home, reading the policy wording carefully.

● This blog is for information only and should not be taken as advice. Appliance insurance cover suitability depends on individual needs and circumstances.

● Coverage is subject to eligibility, exclusions, and claim limits. Please read the full policy terms and conditions before purchasing. Smart-Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited, which is an appointed representative of City and Commercial Limited, who is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 600428.