Home Emergency Cover
Home emergency cover is insurance that sends an approved engineer to deal with a sudden emergency in your home and pays the call-out, labour and parts, up to your policy limits. Examples include a boiler breakdown, a burst pipe, a blocked drain or a total loss of electricity.
It's there to make your home safe, secure and working again quickly. It doesn't pay for damage the emergency causes; your home insurance covers that.
It depends on your plan. Across the four plans (Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus), Smart Cover can cover:
- emergency boiler breakdown and the internal gas supply pipe
- your central heating system
- internal plumbing and drainage, plus your external water supply pipe
- electrical emergencies, including a total loss of power in your home
- security and lost or stolen house keys
- pest infestations (rats, mice, and wasp or hornet nests)
You can also add an optional annual boiler service, which is a separate service and not part of the insurance. Every plan gives you a 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247.
What you pay depends on the plan you choose (Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home or Smart Home Plus), whether you choose Essential or Premium, and whether you pay monthly, quarterly or annually. Get a quote to see current prices for your home.
Each plan builds on the one before:
- Smart Boiler: emergency boiler breakdown and the internal gas supply pipe.
- Smart Heating: adds your central heating system, such as radiators and heating controls.
- Smart Home: adds plumbing, drainage, electrics and the external water supply pipe.
- Smart Home Plus: adds security and lost keys, and pest infestations.
All four have unlimited claims each year, up to £500 per claim on Essential or £1,000 per claim on Premium.
The main difference is the per-claim limit. Essential plans pay up to £500 per claim, and Premium plans pay up to £1,000 per claim. Both have unlimited claims each year. A Premium plan gives you more headroom for bigger repairs.
Only boiler plans with a limit of £500 per claim or more include a contribution towards a new boiler if yours can't be repaired, and only for homeowner policies where the boiler is under 7 years old.
It depends on your home and your budget. An emergency call-out from a plumber, electrician or heating engineer can be expensive, especially out of hours. Home emergency cover turns that risk into a fixed regular cost and gives you one 24/7 number to call.
It may be worth considering if your boiler is a few years old, your home is older, or an unexpected bill would be hard to pay. Before buying, check whether your home insurance or bank account already includes similar cover.
Yes. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Smart Cover home emergency cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
Home emergency cover fixes the emergency. Home insurance pays for the damage it causes. For example, if a pipe bursts, home emergency cover sends a plumber to stop the leak and repair the pipe. Your buildings and contents insurance then pays to repair the ceiling, flooring and belongings the water damaged.
The two work together, and many people have both.
Not usually. Most standard home insurance policies don't include home emergency cover. It's often an optional add-on, sometimes with lower limits than a dedicated policy. Check your policy schedule. If you already have it, compare its claim limits, excess and what it covers before you buy another policy.
Boiler cover only protects your boiler, and sometimes your central heating. Home emergency cover protects much more of your home in one policy: plumbing, drainage, electrics, and on higher plans security, lost keys and pests.
Smart Boiler is our boiler-only plan. Smart Home and Smart Home Plus are our full home emergency plans. See boiler cover to compare.
No. Home emergency cover protects your home's systems: boiler, heating, plumbing, drainage, electrics and security. It doesn't cover appliances like washing machines, fridges, ovens or dishwashers. For those, you need separate appliance cover, which Smart Cover also offers.
Yes. Smart Plumbing & Drainage covers internal plumbing, drainage and your external water supply pipe, without boiler or heating cover. Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals adds electrical emergencies.
These plans pay up to £250 per claim, with a £1,000 annual claim limit. See plumbing and drainage cover.
A home emergency is a sudden, unexpected event that needs urgent action to:
- make your home safe
- keep it secure
- stop further damage
- restore an essential service such as heating, water, drainage or electricity
Examples include a boiler breakdown, a burst pipe, a blocked drain, a total loss of power, or being locked out after losing your keys. Problems that can safely wait, like a dripping tap, usually aren't emergencies.
Yes, on all four boiler plans: Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus. If your boiler breaks down unexpectedly, we'll send a Gas Safe registered engineer to diagnose and repair it, including parts and labour, up to your per-claim limit. Your boiler must have been serviced within the last 12 months.
Some boilers aren't covered, including LPG boilers, boilers with an output over 60kW, and AGA or Rayburn-type appliances. If parts take more than 60 hours to arrive, homeowner policies pay £40 towards alternative heating.
Yes, on Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus. Central heating cover protects the system that carries heat around your home, such as radiators, pipework and heating controls. Bespoke or designer radiators and towel rails aren't covered. Smart Boiler covers the boiler only.
Yes, on Smart Home and Smart Home Plus, and on our Smart Plumbing & Drainage plans. They cover internal plumbing emergencies, such as burst or leaking pipes, and drainage emergencies, such as blocked toilets, sinks and waste pipes. They also cover a blockage, collapse or leak of your external water supply pipe.
Problems that start outside your property boundary aren't covered. To report an emergency, call 03333 449 247, 24/7.
Yes, on Smart Home and Smart Home Plus, and on Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals. We cover a sudden breakdown of your home's internal electrical system, such as a total loss of power in your home.
Rewiring, upgrades, appliance faults and wiring in communal areas aren't covered.
Only if the fault is inside your home. If your whole street or area has lost power, it's a network power cut, and your electricity network operator is responsible for fixing it. Call the free national power cut line on 105.
If only your home has lost power, it may be an electrical emergency, so call us on 03333 449 247.
Call the free National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 straight away, before calling us. Open doors and windows, turn off the gas at the meter if you can, don't use naked flames or operate electrical switches, and leave the property if you feel unwell.
Once the gas emergency service has made it safe, call us about any repair to your boiler or internal gas supply pipe.
Yes, on all four boiler plans: Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus. The internal gas supply pipe runs from your gas meter to your boiler. Pipework before the meter belongs to your gas network, which deals with leaks there through 0800 111 999.
Yes, on Smart Home Plus. If your house keys are lost or stolen and you can't get in, or can't secure your home, we'll cover eligible locksmith charges to get you safely back in and your home secure. Planned lock upgrades aren't covered.
Yes, on Smart Home Plus. We cover removal of infestations of black or brown rats, field or house mice, and wasp or hornet nests in your home.
Other pests, such as ants, fleas, bedbugs, spiders, bees, cockroaches and bats, aren't covered. Nor are prevention work or infestations that existed before your cover started.
No. Repairing roof, storm or structural damage is normally a claim on your buildings insurance. If your home is exposed after a storm, contact your home insurer straight away.
Yes, within limits. If your home becomes uninhabitable for more than 48 hours because of a covered emergency, we'll pay up to £200 (including VAT) towards alternative accommodation. Check your policy documents for the sections this applies to.
For longer stays after major damage, your buildings insurance usually provides alternative accommodation.
An annual boiler service is an optional extra you can add. It's a separate service, not part of the insurance. A Gas Safe registered engineer carries out a one-off service and flue gas analysis. No repairs are done during the service.
The service can be booked 30 days after you request it. If you pay monthly, you can book it once your plan has been running for 6 months. A £60 fee applies if you miss the appointment.
Remember, your boiler must have been serviced within the last 12 months for boiler claims to be accepted.
Home emergency cover is for sudden, unexpected emergencies. It doesn't cover:
- events that aren't emergencies, and call-outs where no fault is found (the call-out charge is still payable)
- general maintenance, wear and tear, and faults that develop gradually
- faults that existed, or that you knew about, before your cover started
- removing limescale, sludge or corrosion, or repairs caused by them
- boiler repairs where the boiler hasn't been serviced in the last 12 months
- homes left unoccupied for 30 or more days in a row
- intermittent or recurring faults, and problems from poor installation
- replacing lead, steel or iron pipes, or bringing systems up to current standards
- damage the emergency causes to your home or belongings (claim on home insurance)
Your policy documents give the full list.
No. Problems that existed before your cover started, or that you knew about when you bought the policy, aren't covered.
New policies also have a waiting period before you can claim: 14 days for homeowners and 28 days for landlords. During this time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis.
An unserviced boiler is much more likely to break down, and faults can build up unnoticed. That's why boiler claims need the boiler to have been serviced within the last 12 months. Keep your service record as proof.
No. Home emergency cover pays to fix the cause: the boiler, pipe, drain or electrical fault. It doesn't pay to repair the damage the emergency causes, such as water-stained ceilings, ruined carpets or damaged belongings. Claim for those on your buildings or contents insurance.
Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247, 365 days a year. Have your policy number ready and explain what's happened. We'll check your cover, give you advice on keeping your home safe, and arrange an approved engineer.
You must tell us about an emergency within 24 hours and take reasonable steps to limit the damage. For questions about an existing claim, call 03333 449 559.
We'll arrange an approved engineer as quickly as possible. Exact times depend on your location, the type of emergency and demand at the time, for example during a cold snap when many boilers fail. Response times can't be guaranteed, but we'll tell you what to expect when you call and how to keep your home safe in the meantime.
Call us first. Repairs must be arranged through Smart Cover and done by an engineer from our approved network. If you pay your own tradesperson without our agreement, we may not be able to cover the cost.
On Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus, there's no limit on the number of claims each year. Each claim is covered up to your per-claim limit: £500 on Essential or £1,000 on Premium.
Smart Plumbing & Drainage plans pay up to £250 per claim, with a £1,000 limit each year.
Your policy pays up to your per-claim limit. If a repair costs more, you pay the difference, so ask about any likely extra cost before further work goes ahead. A Premium plan's £1,000 per-claim limit gives more headroom for bigger repairs.
Any excess that applies is shown on your quote and your policy schedule. The excess is the amount you pay towards each claim.
Yes. New homeowner policies have a 14-day waiting period, and landlord policies have a 28-day one, from the policy start date. This stops cover being bought for a problem that has already happened.
During the waiting period, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis. Once it ends, you're covered 24/7 for new emergencies.
Repairs are carried out by qualified engineers from Smart Cover's approved network. All gas and boiler work is done by Gas Safe registered engineers.
Yes. Smart Cover offers landlord home emergency cover on Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus. It helps you keep a rental property's heating, hot water, plumbing and electrics in working order.
Landlord policies have a 28-day waiting period, and don't include the £40 alternative heating payment or the boiler replacement contribution. Landlords also need an annual Gas Safety Record (CP12), which is separate from the insurance.
Usually not. If you rent, your landlord is normally responsible for repairing the boiler, heating, water, drains and electrics. Report emergencies to your landlord or letting agent, and check your tenancy agreement if you're not sure.
If your landlord has given you their Smart Cover policy documents, you can call us directly in an emergency.
Yes. You can protect the boiler, heating, plumbing and electrics that serve only your flat. Shared parts of the building, such as communal pipes, drains, roofs and wiring, are usually the responsibility of the freeholder or management company. Your lease will set this out.
Yes. You can pay monthly, quarterly or annually. If you pay monthly or quarterly, your payments must be up to date for us to send an engineer. You'll see all payment options when you get a quote.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund. Annual payers get a pro-rata refund, minus a £25 admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Yes. If you start on Smart Boiler and later want plumbing, electrics, keys or pest cover, call us on 03333 449 559 to discuss upgrading to Smart Home or Smart Home Plus. We'll confirm any waiting period that applies to the new cover when you change.
Contact Smart Cover on 03333 449 559 or by email at enquiries@smart-cover.co.uk and we'll try to put things right.
If your complaint is about the sale or administration of your policy and we can't resolve it within 8 weeks, you can refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service, free of charge. Your policy documents explain how to complain about a claim.
- Have your boiler serviced every year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Lag pipes in lofts and garages, and keep the heating on low when you're away in winter.
- Don't pour fat or grease down sinks, and only flush toilet paper.
- Bleed radiators and check your boiler pressure (usually 1 to 1.5 bar when cold).
- Fit carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, and test them monthly.
- Know where your stop tap, gas meter valve and consumer unit are.
- Clear gutters and outside drains each autumn.
A few quick checks can sometimes get your heating back on:
- Check there's power to the boiler and that your gas supply is on (for example, does the hob work?).
- Check the boiler pressure. If it's below about 1 bar, it may need repressurising.
- Check your thermostat and timer settings.
- In freezing weather, check whether the condensate pipe is frozen.
- Try the boiler's reset button once.
If it still won't work, call us on 03333 449 247. Never open the boiler casing yourself.
- Read your IPID and policy terms when you buy, so you know what your plan covers.
- Have your boiler serviced every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and keep the record.
- Call us before arranging any repair.
- Tell us about an emergency within 24 hours.
- Tell us about changes to your home, such as letting it to tenants.
- Keep your payments up to date.
Yes. Please make sure the details you give us are accurate, such as the type of property, whether it's let to tenants and your boiler details, and tell us if anything changes. If you let the property, you'll need a landlord policy rather than a homeowner policy. Inaccurate information can affect whether a claim is paid.
No. Problems caused by improper installation, including DIY work that wasn't done properly, aren't covered. Nor are faults caused deliberately or through negligence. Damage to your home or belongings is a matter for your home insurance.
A single cold radiator usually isn't an emergency, because the rest of your heating still works. Try bleeding the radiator first. If your whole heating system stops working, call our 24/7 Emergency Helpline on 03333 449 247. Central heating cover is included on Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus. Faults with the radiator body itself, such as leaks or corrosion, aren't covered.
Please tell us when you call if anyone in your home is elderly, very young, unwell or has a disability, especially if you've lost heating in cold weather. It helps us understand how urgent your situation is.
Call our 24/7 Emergency Helpline on 03333 449 247 and explain what's happening. We'll tell you whether it's covered and what happens next. Please don't book your own tradesperson before speaking to us, as we may not be able to cover the cost.
Boiler cover is insurance that pays for a Gas Safe registered engineer to repair your boiler if it breaks down unexpectedly, including the call-out, parts and labour, up to your policy limits. It helps when a fault leaves you without heating, such as a failed part, faulty boiler controls or a leaking internal gas supply pipe.
Instead of a large one-off repair bill, you pay a fixed monthly, quarterly or annual amount.
Every Smart Cover boiler plan includes:
- emergency boiler breakdown repairs, including parts and labour
- faulty boiler controls and internal components
- the internal gas supply pipe from your meter to your boiler
- unlimited claims each year, up to £500 per claim on Essential or £1,000 per claim on Premium
- a 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247, 365 days a year
You can also add an optional boiler service, which is a separate service and not part of the insurance. Higher plans add central heating, plumbing, drainage, electrics, lost keys and pest cover.
What you pay depends on the plan you choose (Smart Boiler, Smart Heating, Smart Home or Smart Home Plus), whether you choose Essential or Premium, and whether you pay monthly, quarterly or annually. Get a quote to see current prices for your home.
- Smart Boiler: your boiler and internal gas supply pipe only.
- Smart Heating: adds your central heating, including radiator valves, the pump, motorised valves, thermostat and controls, and internal heating pipework.
- Smart Home: adds plumbing, drainage, electrics and your external water supply pipe.
- Smart Home Plus: adds lost keys and pest infestations.
Each plan comes as Essential (up to £500 per claim) or Premium (up to £1,000 per claim). Many homeowners with older radiators and pipework choose at least Smart Heating, because some "boiler" problems are actually central heating faults.
It can be. A single boiler repair, such as a new pump, fan, PCB or diverter valve, can cost a few hundred pounds once the call-out and labour are added, and breakdowns often happen in winter when engineers are busiest. Boiler cover spreads that cost into regular payments and gives you a 24/7 number to call.
It may be most useful if your boiler is out of its manufacturer's warranty, a few years old, or you'd struggle to pay an unexpected bill. It may be less useful if your boiler is brand new and still under warranty, or if you rent, because heating repairs are usually your landlord's responsibility.
A boiler service is a planned check by a Gas Safe registered engineer to keep your boiler safe and efficient. Boiler cover is insurance that pays for repairs if your boiler breaks down unexpectedly.
They work together. Boiler claims need your boiler to have been serviced in the last 12 months. Smart Cover offers a one-off boiler service from £99, which is a separate service and not part of the insurance.
- Boiler cover protects the boiler itself.
- Central heating cover also protects the system that carries the heat around your home: valves, pump, thermostat, controls and pipework.
- Home emergency cover adds plumbing, drainage, electrics and, on higher plans, keys and pests.
Usually not. Standard buildings and contents insurance pays for damage to your home, not for repairing a broken boiler. Some insurers offer home emergency add-ons that include boiler cover, sometimes with lower limits. Check your policy schedule. If boiler breakdown isn't listed, you're not covered.
Maybe not for the boiler itself. A manufacturer's warranty usually covers faulty boiler parts for a set period, often on condition that the boiler is serviced every year. It usually doesn't cover your radiators, valves, pump, thermostat or pipework. Many people with new boilers choose central heating or home emergency cover for the rest of the system.
Yes. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Smart Cover boiler cover is for domestic gas boilers, repaired by Gas Safe registered engineers. If you're not sure whether your boiler qualifies, call us on 03333 449 559 before you buy.
Some boilers and appliances can't be covered, including:
- LPG boilers
- oil boilers and other non-gas appliances
- boilers with an output over 60kW
- AGA, Rayburn and similar range cookers
- Elson tanks
Older boilers can be covered, as long as the boiler is in good working order, has been serviced in the last 12 months, and has no known faults when your cover starts. Parts for very old boilers can become hard to find. The contribution towards a replacement boiler only applies to boilers under 7 years old.
Yes. Boiler cover protects against future breakdowns, so your boiler must be working properly, with no known faults, when your policy starts. Faults that existed before your cover began aren't covered.
There's also a waiting period before you can claim: 14 days for homeowners and 28 days for landlords. During this time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis.
Yes. Get your boiler serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer as soon as you move in. This gives you a service record and confirms the boiler is safe and working before your cover starts. Smart Cover offers a one-off boiler service from £99.
Yes. Smart Cover offers landlord boiler and home emergency cover, which helps you keep a rental property's heating and hot water working. Landlord policies have a 28-day waiting period before you can claim, and don't include the £40 alternative heating payment or the contribution towards a replacement boiler.
Landlords also need a Gas Safety Record (CP12) every 12 months, which is separate from the insurance.
Usually not. If you rent, your landlord is normally responsible for repairing the boiler and heating, and for an annual gas safety check. Report a breakdown to your landlord or letting agent straight away. If your landlord has given you their Smart Cover policy documents, you can call us directly in an emergency.
Smart Cover boiler cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
Smart Cover covers repairs to your boiler after a sudden breakdown, including parts and labour for internal components and faulty boiler controls, up to your per-claim limit. Smart Heating and higher plans also cover radiator valves, the circulating pump, motorised valves, the thermostat and controls, and internal heating pipework.
Yes. Every Smart Cover boiler plan covers the internal gas supply pipe that runs from your gas meter to your boiler. If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 first.
Radiator valves are covered on Smart Heating and higher plans. Faults with the radiator body itself, such as leaks, corrosion or split panels, aren't covered, and nor are bespoke or designer radiators and towel rails. Smart Boiler covers the boiler only, not radiators or heating pipework.
Check your boiler settings and timer first. If the problem continues, call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247. We'll check whether the fault is covered under your plan before arranging an engineer.
Turn the boiler off, catch the water and call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247. Never remove the casing yourself. Your boiler cover pays to repair a covered breakdown. Damage the leak causes to your home or belongings is a claim on your home insurance.
Boiler cover pays for repairs. However, if your boiler is beyond economic repair and is under 7 years old, homeowner policies with a limit of £500 per claim or more pay a contribution towards a replacement. A boiler is beyond economic repair if the repair would cost more than 70% of its replacement value, parts are obsolete or unavailable, or it's unsafe to repair.
If parts take more than 60 hours to arrive, homeowner policies also pay £40 towards alternative heating. Neither benefit applies to landlord policies.
A Gas Safe registered engineer from our approved network inspects your boiler and reports the fault and likely repair cost. Smart Cover makes the decision based on that report. If you'd like to know why a decision was made, ask us to explain it.
No, but you can add an optional boiler service. It's a separate service, not part of the insurance. A Gas Safe registered engineer carries out a one-off service and flue gas analysis. No repairs are done during the service.
The service can be booked 30 days after you buy it. If you pay monthly, you can book it once your plan has been running for 6 months. A £60 fee applies if you miss the appointment.
- events that aren't emergencies, and call-outs where no fault is found (the call-out charge is still payable)
- general maintenance, and wear and tear
- removing limescale, sludge or corrosion, or repairs caused by them
- faults that existed, or that you knew about, before your cover started
- a boiler that hasn't been serviced in the last 12 months
- intermittent or recurring faults, and problems from poor installation
- homes left unoccupied for 30 or more days in a row
- faults with the radiator body itself
- damage caused by the breakdown to your home or belongings (a home insurance matter)
Your policy documents give the full list.
No. Removing limescale, sludge or corrosion, including a power flush, and repairs caused by them aren't covered, because they build up gradually. A magnetic system filter, inhibitor in your heating water and regular servicing all help prevent sludge.
No. Faults that existed before your cover started, or that you knew about when you bought it, aren't covered. Get your boiler serviced before cover starts, so any problems are found and fixed first.
- Check the boiler has power and your gas is on (does the hob work?).
- Check the pressure gauge. Most boilers need around 1 to 1.5 bar when cold.
- Check your thermostat and timer settings.
- Note any fault code on the display.
- In freezing weather, check whether the condensate pipe outside is frozen.
- Try the reset button once.
If it still won't work, call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247. Never open the boiler casing or attempt gas repairs yourself.
Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247, 365 days a year. Have your policy number, boiler make and model and any fault code ready. We'll check your cover and arrange a Gas Safe registered engineer.
You must tell us about a breakdown within 24 hours and take reasonable steps to limit any damage. For questions about an existing claim, call 03333 449 559.
We'll arrange a Gas Safe registered engineer as quickly as possible. Timings depend on your location and demand, and cold snaps, when many boilers fail at once, are the busiest times. When you call, we'll tell you what to expect and how to keep your home warm in the meantime.
As often as you need. Every Smart Cover boiler plan has unlimited claims each year. Each claim is covered up to £500 on Essential plans or £1,000 on Premium plans.
Your policy pays up to your per-claim limit. Anything above it is your cost, so ask about the likely extra cost before further work goes ahead. A Premium plan's £1,000 limit gives more headroom for bigger repairs.
Any excess that applies is shown on your quote and your policy schedule. The excess is the amount you pay towards each claim.
Your policy starts on the date you choose, but you can't claim in the first 14 days of a homeowner policy, or the first 28 days of a landlord policy. During that time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis. If you're switching from another provider, start your Smart Cover policy before your old cover ends.
Call us first. Repairs must be arranged through Smart Cover and carried out by our approved Gas Safe registered engineers. If you pay another engineer without our agreement, we may not be able to cover the cost.
Call the free National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 immediately. Open doors and windows, turn off the gas at the meter if it's safe to, don't use flames or electrical switches, and get everyone out into fresh air. If anyone has headaches, dizziness or nausea, seek medical help (NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency). Don't use the boiler again until a Gas Safe registered engineer has checked it.
Yes. You can pay monthly, quarterly or annually. If you pay monthly or quarterly, your payments must be up to date for us to send an engineer. You'll see all payment options when you get a quote.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund. Annual payers get a pro-rata refund, minus a £25 admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim.
Your policy renews automatically each year. We'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal with your renewal price, so you can review your plan or cancel. Our Price Match Promise also applies: if you find the same cover cheaper, we'll aim to match it, subject to our Price Match Terms.
No. Smart Cover isn't an energy supplier, so your boiler cover is completely separate from your gas and electricity supply. You can switch energy supplier without affecting your cover.
Yes. Call us on 03333 449 559 to move from Smart Boiler to Smart Heating, Smart Home or Smart Home Plus. We'll confirm the new price and when the extra cover starts.
Contact Smart Cover on 03333 449 559 or by email at enquiries@smart-cover.co.uk and we'll try to put things right.
If your complaint is about the sale or administration of your policy and we can't resolve it within 8 weeks, you can refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service, free of charge. Your policy documents explain how to complain about a claim.
Every 12 months. A regular service by a Gas Safe registered engineer keeps your boiler safe and efficient and helps find faults early. Your boiler must have been serviced in the last 12 months for boiler claims to be accepted. Landlords must also have a gas safety check (CP12) every 12 months.
Most modern gas boilers last around 10 to 15 years, depending on the make, how well it's maintained and your water quality. Signs it may be time to replace yours include frequent breakdowns, rising energy bills, slow heating, hard-to-find parts and an older, non-condensing boiler.
Common causes include a leak in the system, a faulty pressure relief valve, or recently bled radiators. You can usually top up the pressure yourself using the filling loop, following your boiler manual. If the pressure keeps dropping, there's probably a fault that needs an engineer, so call us on 03333 449 247.
In very cold weather, the condensate pipe that runs outside from a condensing boiler can freeze and shut the boiler down. To prevent it, insulate the external pipe with waterproof lagging. If it does freeze, pour warm (not boiling) water over the pipe, then reset the boiler.
- a lazy yellow or orange flame instead of a crisp blue one
- soot or black marks on or around the boiler
- more condensation on windows than usual
- a pilot light that keeps going out
- a gas smell, or your carbon monoxide alarm going off
If you notice any of these, turn the boiler off, ventilate the room, and call 0800 111 999 if you smell gas. Fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm near every gas appliance.
Central heating cover is insurance that pays for a Gas Safe registered engineer to repair your boiler and the system that carries heat around your home if something breaks down unexpectedly. That system includes radiator valves, the circulating pump, motorised valves, your thermostat and controls, and internal heating pipework. The call-out, parts and labour are included, up to your per-claim limit. Smart Cover includes central heating on Smart Heating, Smart Home and Smart Home Plus.
What you pay depends on the plan you choose (Smart Heating, Smart Home or Smart Home Plus), whether you choose Essential or Premium, the excess you select, and whether you pay monthly, quarterly or annually. Get a quote to see current prices for your home.
Central heating cover protects your boiler and heating system. Home emergency cover is broader: it adds plumbing, drainage, electrics and, on higher plans, lost keys and pest control. Smart Home Essential and Smart Home Plus Essential include central heating as part of fullhome emergency cover.
No. A manufacturer's boiler warranty covers faulty parts in the boiler itself, typically only if it's serviced every year. It doesn't cover your radiator valves, pump, motorised valves, thermostat or pipework. Central heating cover protects those parts, which is why many people with a new boiler still take it out.
Yes. It's an insurance product, not an unregulated service plan. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Radiator valves are covered, but faults with the radiator body itself aren't, such as leaks, corrosion or split panels. A leaking radiator valve or a stuck valve stopping a radiator warming up can be covered. A radiator that's rusted through and needs replacing isn't.
Yes. The circulating pump is covered on Smart Heating Essential and higher plans. Signs of a failing pump include radiators that stay cold while the boiler fires, a humming or grinding noise, or the boiler overheating and shutting down.
Yes. Faults with your thermostat and heating controls are covered on Smart Heating Essential and higher plans. Smart thermostats and app-controlled systems can vary, so if you have one, call us on03333 449 559to check how it's treated. Upgrading or reprogramming your controls isn't covered.
Internal heating pipework is covered when a sudden leak is causing damage to your home. Leaks that aren't damaging the property are excluded. If a heating pipe is leaking, turn off your heating, catch the water and call us. Your home insurance covers the water damage itself.
Central heating cover is built around a gas boiler and radiator system. Many providers exclude hot water cylinders, immersion heaters, underfloor heating and heat pumps, or cover them only on higher plans. If your home has any of these, call us on03333 449 559before you buy and we'll confirm what's included.
- events that aren't emergencies, and call-outs where no fault is found (the call-out charge is still payable)
- general maintenance work
- removing limescale, sludge or debris, or repairs caused by them
- pre-existing faults and known damage
- a boiler that hasn't been serviced in the last 12 months
- leaks that don't cause damage to your home
- faults with the radiator body, such as leaks or corrosion
- breakdowns that only cause a loss of hot water
- homes left unoccupied for 30 or more days in a row
- damage caused by the breakdown to your home or belongings (a home insurance matter)
Your policy documents give the full list.
No. Removing sludge, limescale or debris, including a power flush, isn't covered, and neither are repairs caused by sludge. Sludge builds up slowly from rust and debris in your heating water. A magnetic filter, inhibitor in the system and an annual service all help keep it at bay.
No. Pre-existing faults and damage you already knew about aren't covered. New homeowner policies also have a 14-day waiting period before you can claim (28 days for landlords). During that time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis. Get your system checked before cover starts if you're unsure about its condition.
A radiator that's cold at the top but warm at the bottom usually hastrapped air. Bleed it: with the heating off and the radiator cool, open the bleed valve with a radiator key until water appears, then close it. Afterwards, check your boiler pressure and top it up if it has dropped below about 1 bar.
A radiator that's warm at the top but cold at the bottom is often a sign ofsludgecollecting in the base. Sludge is removed with a chemical clean or power flush, which isn't covered by insurance. Adding a magnetic filter afterwards helps stop it coming back.
If one radiator stays cold while the rest heat up, check that both its valves are open and that the thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) isn't stuck. Tapping the TRV pin gently can free it. Then try bleeding the radiator. If it's still cold, a stuck valve or a balancing issue may need an engineer. A faulty radiator valve is covered on Smart Heating and higher plans.
This usually points to a problem with your controls or valves rather than the boiler. Check that your thermostat is set above the room temperature, your programmer or timer is in a heating period, and the thermostat batteries aren't flat. If it still won't work, a faulty motorised zone valve, diverter valve or thermostat could be the cause. These can be covered on Smart Heating and higher plans, so call our 24/7 emergency helpline on03333 449 247.
Gurgling is usually trapped air, so bleed your radiators. Banging or kettling(a rumbling, kettle-like noise) can mean limescale or sludge is restricting flow through the boiler's heat exchanger, or that the pump is failing. Low system pressure can also cause noises. If the noise continues, turn the heating off and get an engineer to check it.
- Turn the heating off and let the radiators cool.
- Hold a cloth under the bleed valve at the top corner of the radiator.
- Turn the valve anticlockwise with a radiator key, about a quarter to half a turn.
- Let the air hiss out until water starts to drip, then close the valve.
- Check the boiler pressure gauge and repressurise if it's below about 1 bar.
Most sealed central heating systems should read around1 to 1.5 baron the boiler's pressure gauge when the heating is cold, rising a little when it's hot. Check your boiler manual for the exact figure. If the pressure keeps dropping, there may be a leak or a faulty valve that needs an engineer.
Call our24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247, 365 days a year. Have your policy number ready and tell us what's happening, such as cold radiators, no heating or a fault code. We'll check your cover and arrange an approved Gas Safe registered engineer.
You must tell us about an emergency within 24 hours. For questions about an existing claim, call03333 449 559.
Your policy pays up to your per-claim limit. You pay anything above that, so ask about the likely extra cost before further work goes ahead.
You choose your excess when you get a quote. The excess is what you pay towards each claim, and a higher excess lowers your price.
Call us first. Repairs must be arranged through Smart Cover and carried out by our approved Gas Safe registered engineers. If you pay another engineer without speaking to us, we may not be able to cover the cost.
Yes. Smart Cover offerslandlord coverto help you meet your legal duty to keep a rental property's heating and hot water working. Landlord policies have a 28-day waiting period before you can claim, and don't include the alternative heating payment or the boiler replacement contribution. You also need a Gas Safety Record (CP12) every 12 months, which is separate from the insurance.
Usually not. If you rent, your landlord is legally responsible for keeping the heating and hot water in good repair. Report problems to your landlord or letting agent.
Yes. If you're on Smart Boiler, call03333 449 559to upgrade to Smart Heating, which adds radiator valves, the pump, motorised valves, controls and internal heating pipework. We'll confirm the new price and when the extra cover starts.
You can pay monthly, quarterly or annually. If you pay monthly or quarterly, your payments must be up to date for us to send an engineer.
If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund. After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund, and annual payers get a pro-rata refund minus an admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Smart Cover central heating cover is available across mainland England, Wales and Scotland, using a nationwide network of Gas Safe registered engineers. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
It can be. Electrical faults are hard to diagnose yourself and shouldn't be attempted without training, and an out-of-hours electrician's call-out, fault-finding and parts can be expensive. Cover gives you a 24/7 number, a qualified electrician and predictable costs. It's most useful in older homes, homes with older consumer units, or if a total power loss would be serious, for example if you work from home or have vulnerable people in the household.
Usually not the repair. Buildings insurance may pay fordamagecaused by an electrical fault, for example a fire, and some policies include accidental damage to wiring. But it doesn't normally pay an electrician to find and fix a fault that has left you without power. Electrical emergency cover does that job.
Yes. It's an insurance product. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Smart Cover covers sudden internal electrical breakdowns, including:
- a total loss of power within your home
- repeated tripping at the consumer unit (fuse board)
- sockets or circuits that suddenly stop working
- burning smells, scorching or sparks from sockets or switches
- consumer unit and fuse board faults
- faults that make part of your property unsafe to use
You can report an electrical emergency 24/7, 365 days a year. On Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals, repairs where only part of your home's permanent wiring has failed aren't covered.
Yes. Sudden faults with your consumer unit (fuse board), including faulty circuit breakers or a unit that keeps tripping, are covered as internal electrical emergencies. Upgrading an old fuse box to a modern consumer unit as an improvement isn't covered.
Sockets and switches that suddenly stop working, or that spark, scorch or smell of burning, can be covered as an electrical emergency. Problems that aren't emergencies, like replacing a broken lamp, changing bulbs or adding new sockets, aren't covered. On Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals, repairs where only part of your home's permanent wiring has failed aren't covered.
No. Electrical cover protects your home's fixed electrical system, not the appliances you plug into it. Washing machines, ovens, fridges and dishwashers aren't covered, and neither is appliance replacement. For those, you needappliance cover, which Smart Cover also offers.
No. Rewiring, upgrades and planned improvements aren't covered. Electrical cover fixes sudden faults so your home is safe and working again. If an electrician finds your wiring is old or unsafe, they'll tell you, but full or partial rewiring is your cost.
Smart Cover electrical cover is for your home's internal electrical system. Items such as EV chargers, solar panels, battery storage, electric showers, outside lights and supplies to outbuildings are commonly excluded or limited across the market. If you need cover for any of these, call us on03333 449 559before you buy.
- events that aren't emergencies, and call-outs where no fault is found (the call-out charge is still payable)
- general maintenance and routine electrical work
- upgrades, rewiring and planned improvements
- appliance repair or replacement
- pre-existing faults and wear and tear
- power cuts on the network outside your home (call 105)
- homes left unoccupied for 30 or more days in a row
- on Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals: wiring in communal areas, partial wiring failures, and the cost of tracing and accessing a fault
Your policy documents give the full list.
No. Faults that existed before your cover started, or that you already knew about, aren't covered. New homeowner policies have a 14-day waiting period before you can claim (28 days for landlords). During that time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis.
- Check whether it's just your home. Are your neighbours' lights and streetlights on?
- If the whole street is off, it's a network power cut. Call the free national power cut line on 105. Your network operator is responsible.
- If only your home is off, check your consumer unit for a tripped switch and try resetting it.
- If it won't reset, or keeps tripping, call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247.
- Check your prepayment meter has credit, if you have one.
Only if the fault is inside your home. A power cut affecting your street is your electricity network operator's responsibility, so call 105. If only your property has lost power, it may be an internal electrical emergency. Call us on03333 449 247and we'll arrange an electrician.
Your consumer unit trips to protect you when it detects a problem. The most common causes are:
- a faulty appliance, such as a kettle, toaster, washing machine, oven or immersion heater
- water getting into outside sockets, lights or junction boxes
- an overloaded circuit from several high-power appliances at once
- a wiring fault or a failing circuit breaker or RCD
If it keeps tripping and you can't identify a faulty appliance, it's likely an internal electrical fault. Call us if you're covered.
- Unplug or switch off every appliance on the affected circuit.
- Reset the tripped switch or RCD on the consumer unit.
- Plug appliances back in one at a time, waiting a moment after each one.
- If it trips when you plug something in, that appliance is likely faulty. Stop using it.
- If it trips with everything unplugged, there's probably a fault in the wiring. Call an electrician.
Never remove the consumer unit cover or touch wiring yourself.
AnRCD (residual current device) switches off the power in a split second if it detects electricity leaking to earth, for example through a person or water. It protects you from electric shock. An MCB(miniature circuit breaker) switches off a single circuit if it's overloaded or there's a short circuit, protecting the wiring from overheating. Both are in your consumer unit.
Water getting into outdoor electrics, such as an outside socket, garden lights or a cable to a shed, often trips the RCD in wet weather. Check outdoor fittings for damaged seals or covers, and don't use them until an electrician has checked them.
Treat it as an emergency. If it's safe to do so, switch off the power at the consumer unit, unplug anything in the socket, and don't use it again. If you see smoke or flames, get everyone out and call999. Once everyone is safe, call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247to arrange an electrician.
- burning smells, scorch marks or discoloured sockets and switches
- sockets or plugs that feel hot
- buzzing or crackling from sockets, switches or the consumer unit
- lights that flicker or dim for no reason
- a consumer unit that keeps tripping
- mild shocks or tingles when touching an appliance or switch
Any of these needs an electrician. Don't ignore them.
It isn't recommended. Electrical work can cause shocks, burns and fires. In England and Wales, much electrical work must meet Building Regulations (Part P) and be done by a registered competent person or notified to building control. Leave repairs to a qualified electrician. If you're covered, call us first.
Electrical Safety First recommends having your electrics inspected by a registered electrician at least every10 yearsin a home you own, and every 5 years in a rented home. Landlords in England must have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every 5 years. Test your RCDs regularly using the test button on your consumer unit.
Occasional flicker from a single bulb is usually a loose or failing bulb. If lights flicker or dim across several rooms, especially when appliances switch on, or you hear buzzing, there could be a loose connection or wiring fault, which can be a fire risk. Get an electrician to check it.
Call our24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247, 365 days a year. Have your policy number ready and describe the fault, such as which circuits are affected and what happens when you reset the consumer unit. We'll give you safety advice and arrange a qualified electrician.
You must tell us about an emergency within 24 hours. For questions about an existing claim, call03333 449 559.
We'll arrange a qualified electrician as soon as possible. Timings depend on your location, the type of fault and demand at the time. If there's an immediate danger, keep the affected circuit switched off at the consumer unit until the electrician arrives.
You choose your excess when you get a quote. The excess is what you pay towards each claim, and a higher excess lowers your price.
Your policy pays up to your per-claim limit, and you pay anything above it. Ask about the likely extra cost before further work goes ahead.
Call us first. Repairs must be arranged through Smart Cover and carried out by our approved engineers, unless you need to act immediately to protect your home or your safety. If you pay your own electrician without speaking to us, we may not be able to cover the cost.
Yes. Landlord Smart Home and Landlord Smart Home Plus include internal electrics for rental properties, with a 28-day waiting period. Landlords in England must also have an EICR at least every 5 years and give tenants a copy. Seelandlord cover.
Usually not. Landlords are legally responsible for keeping the electrical installation safe and in working order. Report electrical faults to your landlord or letting agent straight away.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund, and annual payers get a pro-rata refund minus an admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Yes. If you have Smart Boiler or Smart Heating Essential, call03333 449 559to upgrade to Smart Home Essential, which adds electrics, plumbing and drainage. We'll confirm the new price and when the extra cover starts.
Smart Cover electrical cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
With Smart Cover, lost keys cover comes as part of Smart Home Plus, so you get full home emergency protection rather than paying for key cover on its own. What you pay depends on whether you choose Essential or Premium, the excess you select, and whether you pay monthly, quarterly or annually. Get a quote to see current prices for your home.
Smart Home Plus has unlimited claims each year. Each claim is covered up to your per-claim limit, which depends on whether you choose Essential or Premium cover. Your policy schedule shows your limit.
Yes. It's part of an insurance policy. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Sometimes, but often not. Some home insurance policies include limited key cover, often only forstolenkeys and sometimes only with a crime reference number. Many don't cover lockouts or lost keys at all. Check your policy schedule for "keys and locks" or "key cover". Home emergency cover like Smart Home Plus is designed for the urgent part: getting you back in and making your home secure.
Usually only in limited cases. Buildings insurance may cover damage to doors and locks from a break-in, and some contents policies cover replacing locks after keys are stolen. A locksmith call-out because you've locked yourself out or lost your keys is normallynotcovered by standard home insurance. That's what lost keys or home emergency cover is for.
Yes, it can. Many home insurers won't pay out for a burglary if there was no forced entry, which can happen if a thief uses your lost or stolen keys. If your keys could be linked to your address, change the locks promptly and tell your home insurer.
No. Smart Cover's lost keys cover is for yourhouse keys. Car keys, which can be expensive to replace and reprogram, need separate car key cover. This is often available as an add-on to motor insurance or breakdown cover.
Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on03333 449 247. Getting you safely back into your home is the purpose of the benefit, so we'll tell you straight away whether your situation is covered under your policy wording. If you have a spare key nearby, using it is always quicker.
A key that snaps in the lock and leaves you unable to get in or secure your home can be an emergency. Call us and we'll confirm cover. A lock that has become stiff or faulty through wear and tear isn't covered, so lubricate locks occasionally with a graphite or lock-specific lubricant.
If your keys are stolen and your home can't be properly secured, call us straight away. Securing and protecting your home is part of the benefit, and eligible locksmith charges are covered up to your per-claim limit. Upgrading to higher-security locks as an improvement isn't covered.
Lost keys cover is designed around regaining safe access to, and securing, your home. Keys for outbuildings, window locks and other property may not be included. Call03333 449 559to check before you buy if this matters to you.
Smart locks and keyless entry systems work differently from traditional keys. Faults with batteries, apps or electronics aren't the same as lost keys. If you have a smart lock, call us before you buy to check how it's treated. Also tell your home insurer, as some policies require approved locks on external doors.
- Stay calm and safe. Don't climb in through windows or force a door. You could get hurt or cause damage.
- Check for another way in that you know is unlocked, such as a back door.
- Contact a keyholder, such as a partner, family member, trusted neighbour or your landlord or letting agent.
- Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247 if you're covered, before booking your own locksmith.
- If a child or vulnerable person is locked inside, or there's a risk to life, call 999.
- Retrace your steps and check with places you've been, plus local lost property.
- Think about whether the keys could be linked to your address, for example a tag, documents or a bag that was with them. If they could be, treat it as a security risk and get the locks changed promptly.
- Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on 03333 449 247 to confirm your cover and arrange a locksmith. You must tell us about an emergency within 24 hours.
- Tell your home insurer if your keys may have been stolen.
If there's any chance your keys could be linked to your address, yes. Changing the locks, or just the cylinder on a uPVC or composite door, is the safest option, and some home insurers expect it. If you're certain the keys were lost somewhere they can't be traced to your home, you may decide it's lower risk, but always weigh up your security first.
Call us first. Work should be arranged through Smart Cover, unless you need to act immediately to protect your home or your safety. If you pay your own locksmith without speaking to us, we may not be able to cover the cost. If you do need a locksmith urgently, choose one who is vetted, such as a Master Locksmiths Association member, and get a price before they start.
We'll arrange an approved locksmith as soon as possible. Timings depend on your location, the time of day and demand. When you call, we'll give you an idea of what to expect and advice on staying safe while you wait.
No. Burglars know the usual hiding places, such as under the mat, plant pots and fake rocks, and a burglary with no forced entry may not be covered by your home insurance. Leave a spare with a trusted neighbour or family member, or use a police-approved key safe instead.
A good key safe can be, especially for carers or family access. Choose one that's police-approved (Secured by Design) or rated to a recognised standard such as LPS 1175 or Sold Secure, fit it securely to a wall out of sight of the street, and change the code regularly. Check your home insurer is happy with it.
Many home insurers require afive-lever mortice deadlock to British Standard BS 3621 on wooden external doors, or a multi-point locking system on uPVC and composite doors. For euro-cylinder locks, an anti-snap cylinder rated TS 007 3-star or Sold Secure Diamond (SS312)gives much better protection against lock snapping. Check your policy for exact requirements.
- Keep keys in the same place every time you get home, such as a hook or bowl away from the front door and letterbox.
- Never put your address or house number on your keyring.
- Consider a Bluetooth key finder tag.
- Leave a spare with someone you trust nearby.
- Keep keys out of sight of windows and letterboxes to prevent "fishing" through the letterbox.
Yes. You don't know how many keys the previous owners, tenants, builders or estate agents handed out. Changing the locks or cylinders when you move in is a simple, low-cost way to protect your new home. It's a planned change, so it isn't covered by lost keys cover.
You choose your excess when you buy Smart Home Plus. The excess is what you pay towards each claim, and a higher excess lowers your price.
Yes. New homeowner policies have a 14-day waiting period before you can claim (28 days for landlord policies). During that time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis. Keys lost or stolen before your cover started aren't covered.
Usually thetenant. Lost keys and the cost of replacement or lockouts are typically the tenant's responsibility under most tenancy agreements, unless the agreement says otherwise. Landlords who want lock and key protection for their rental property can choose Landlord Smart Home Plus.
Yes. Lost keys cover comes with Smart Home Plus Essential. If you're on Smart Boiler, Smart Heating or Smart Home Essential, call03333 449 559to upgrade. We'll confirm the new price and when the cover starts.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund, and annual payers get a pro-rata refund minus an admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Smart Cover lost keys cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
For many homeowners, yes. Emergency plumbers usually charge a call-out fee plus labour and parts, and out-of-hours rates are higher. One burst pipe or blocked drain can cost more than a year of cover. Cover also gives you a 24/7 number to call and an approved engineer, so you don't have to find a trustworthy plumber in the middle of an emergency.
It's most useful if you own an older property, have had drainage problems before, or would struggle to pay an unexpected repair bill. It's less useful if you rent (repairs are usually your landlord's job) or already have plumbing cover through another policy. Check what you already have before you buy.
Yes. Smart Cover's plumbing and drainage cover is an insurance product. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Not usually. Boiler cover protects the boiler and sometimes the central heating system: radiators, pumps, valves and controls. Leaking water pipes, taps, toilets and drains normally aren't included. To be protected for both, add plumbing and drainage cover or choose a combined plan such as Smart Home Essential. Seeboiler coverfor more.
Yes. Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals covers plumbing and drainage emergencies plus internal electrical emergencies. It has the same £1,000 annual and £250 per-claim limits as the plumbing-only plan. Wiring in communal areas, and repairs where only part of your home's permanent wiring has failed, aren't covered.
A plumbing emergency is a sudden, unexpected problem that needs fixing straight away to stop damage to your home, keep it safe, or restore your water supply or drainage. Examples include a burst pipe, water leaking through a ceiling, a blocked drain backing up, the only toilet in the house blocked or leaking, or a leak on your water supply pipe.
Issues that can safely wait, like a slow-dripping tap or a second toilet that won't flush properly, usually aren't treated as emergencies.
Yes. A burst or leaking pipe inside your home is an internal plumbing emergency and is covered. An engineer will stop the leak and repair the pipe, up to your per-claim limit. If a pipe bursts, turn off your stop tap first, then call the claims line on03333 449 247.
Yes. Blockages in your home's internal drainage are covered, including sinks, baths, showers, toilets and waste pipes. So is a blockage, collapse or leak of the external water supply pipe you're responsible for. Blockages in public sewers are the water company's responsibility, and blockages caused by freezing weather are excluded.
A toilet that's blocked, won't flush or is leaking can be covered as an internal plumbing or drainage emergency, especially if it's the only toilet in your home. Cover is for making it work again. Replacing a cracked pan or upgrading the toilet is a home improvement and isn't covered.
Yes. All Smart Cover plumbing plans cover a blockage, collapse or leak of yourexternal water supply pipe. That's the underground pipe you own, running from your property boundary (or the water company's stop tap) to your home. Pipes on the water company's side of the boundary are their responsibility, and damage that starts outside your property isn't covered.
Usually not. A dripping tap is treated as routine maintenance rather than an emergency, because it rarely damages your home and can normally wait. If a tap or its pipework fails suddenly and you can't stop the water, that's an internal plumbing emergency. Call us and we'll tell you if it's covered.
A pipe that bursts or leaks after freezing can be an internal plumbing emergency. Blockages of supply or waste pipes caused by freezing weather are excluded. The best protection is prevention: lag exposed pipes, keep the heating on low when you're away in winter, and know where your stop tap is.
No. Plumbing and drainage cover pays to fix the emergency itself: stopping the leak, clearing the blockage and repairing the pipe. It doesn't pay to repair or replace things damaged by the water, such as ceilings, floors, carpets or furniture. That's what yourhome insuranceis for, so it's worth having both.
Septic tanks, cesspits, soakaways and their outflow pipes are generally excluded from plumbing and drainage policies, because they need regular emptying and specialist maintenance. Check your policy documents for exactly what's included, or call us before you buy if your home has one.
Drains used by more than one property are usually excluded from plumbing and drainage cover. In England and Wales, most shared drains and sewers outside your boundary became the water company's responsibility on 1 October 2011. If a shared drain is blocked, contact your local water company first.
No. Blocked or leaking gutters and downpipes are external maintenance and aren't covered by plumbing and drainage insurance. Clear your gutters at least once a year, ideally after autumn leaf fall.
No. Removing sludge or hard-water scale is excluded because it builds up slowly over time rather than happening suddenly. In hard-water areas, a scale inhibitor or water softener can help protect your pipes and fittings.
No. Faults or damage that existed before your cover started, or that you knew about when you bought it, aren't covered. There's also a14-day waiting periodfor new homeowner policies (28 days for landlord policies), so you can't take out cover to fix a problem that has already happened.
No. Plumbing and drainage cover is for sudden, unforeseen emergencies. Routine maintenance, gradual deterioration, and damage from events that weren't unforeseen aren't covered. Keeping your plumbing in good order also helps make sure your claims go smoothly.
It depends where the damage is and whose drain it is. Roots can get into cracked drains and cause blockages or collapse. If the affected drain is inside your property and you're responsible for it, call us and we'll assess the emergency. If the problem starts outside your property, or in a public sewer, it isn't covered and is usually the water company's job.
In England and Wales, you're usually responsible for drains that serve only your property and sit within your boundary. Once a drain crosses your boundary, or joins pipes from other properties, it's usually the water company's responsibility. Private sewers and lateral drains transferred to water companies on 1 October 2011.
If you're unsure where a blockage is, call us. If it turns out to be the water company's responsibility, we'll tell you so you can report it to them.
The homeowner is. Yoursupply pipe runs from your property boundary (where there may be a water company stop tap) to the first stop tap or fitting inside your home, and you're responsible for repairing it. The water company is responsible for the communication pipethat runs from the water main to your boundary. Smart Cover's plumbing plans cover the external supply pipe you own.
A drain carries waste water away from a single property. A sewer carries waste water from two or more properties. In England and Wales, the drain inside your boundary is normally your responsibility, and sewers are normally the water company's.
You're usually responsible for the pipes and fittings that serve only your flat, such as your taps, toilet, and the waste pipes up to where they join a shared stack. Shared pipes, communal drains and the building's main stack are usually the responsibility of the freeholder, management company or water company. Your lease will set this out.
Yes, a little. The October 2011 private sewer transfer applied only to England and Wales. In Scotland, responsibility for pipes and drains is set by Scottish Water, so check with them if you're unsure.
Smart Cover plumbing and drainage cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
- Turn off the water at your stop tap, usually under the kitchen sink, where the supply pipe comes in.
- Switch off the electrics at the fuse box if water is near sockets, wiring or light fittings. Don't touch anything wet and electrical.
- Turn on your cold taps to drain the system, and switch off your boiler or immersion heater.
- Catch leaking water in buckets and move valuables away.
- Call the claims line on 03333 449 247.
Tell us about an emergency within 24 hours, because delays that make the damage worse can lead to a claim being declined. Read our step-by-step guide:what to do if a pipe bursts.
We'll arrange an approved engineer as quickly as possible. Exact timings depend on your location, the type of emergency and demand at the time, for example during a cold snap. When you call, we'll tell you what to expect and how to keep your home safe until the engineer arrives.
You should always call the claims line first. All work must be arranged through Smart Cover and done by an approved engineer, unless you need to act immediately to protect your home or your safety. If you pay your own plumber without speaking to us first, we may not be able to reimburse you.
Yes. Repairs are carried out by qualified engineers from Smart Cover's nationwide approved network. For gas work under Smart Home Essential, engineers are Gas Safe registered.
You can claim as many times as you need, up to your plan'sannual limit. Smart Plumbing & Drainage and Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals have a £1,000 annual limit and a £250 per-claim limit. Smart Home Essential has no annual limit on claims and a £500 per-claim limit.
Your policy pays up to the per-claim limit for your plan (£250 or £500). Anything above that is your cost, so ask about any likely extra cost before further work goes ahead. Smart Home Essential's higher £500 per-claim limit gives more headroom for bigger jobs.
It depends on the plan you choose. Smart Plumbing & Drainage and Smart Plumbing, Drainage & Electricals let you choose a£0 or £49 excess. A higher excess lowers your monthly price. Smart Home Essential has a £99 excess. The excess is what you pay towards each claim.
Yes. You can't claim in the first 14 days of a new homeowner policy, or the first 28 days of a landlord policy. This stops people taking out cover for a problem that has already happened. During that time, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis. Once it ends, you're covered 24/7 for new emergencies.
Yes. Smart Cover offers landlord policies, so you can protect your rental property's plumbing and drainage and meet your repair duties to tenants. Landlord policies have a 28-day waiting period before you can claim. See our landlord home emergency cover or call us for a quote.
Usually not. In most tenancies, your landlord is legally responsible for repairing water pipes, drains and toilets. If you rent, report plumbing emergencies to your landlord or letting agent. Check your tenancy agreement if you're not sure.
Yes. You can pay monthly, quarterly or annually. If you pay monthly or quarterly, your payments must be up to date for us to send an engineer. You'll see all payment options and any current offers when you get a quote.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund. Annual payers get a pro-rata refund, minus a £25 admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Contact Smart Cover on03333 449 559 or at enquiries@smart-cover.co.ukand we'll do our best to put things right.
If your complaint is about the sale or administration of your policy and we can't resolve it within 8 weeks, you can refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service, free of charge. Your policy documents explain how to complain about a claim.
- Never pour fat, oil or grease down the sink. Let it cool, then put it in the bin.
- Only flush the 3 Ps: pee, poo and paper. Wet wipes, including “flushable” ones, cause blockages.
- Use sink strainers to catch food scraps and hair.
- Run hot water after washing up, and clear hair from plug holes regularly.
- Keep leaves and debris away from outside drain covers.
Blockages caused by misuse can still be expensive, even if you're covered, so prevention saves time and hassle.
Your internal stop tap is usually under the kitchen sink. It can also be in a downstairs toilet, airing cupboard, utility room, cellar or under the stairs, wherever the supply pipe comes into your home. Turn itclockwiseto shut off the water. Test it once or twice a year so it doesn't seize, and make sure everyone in your home knows where it is.
- Lag pipes and water tanks in lofts, garages and outside walls.
- Keep your heating on low, around 12 to 15°C, if you're away in cold weather.
- Fix dripping taps, because dripping water can freeze in pipes.
- Insulate outside taps, or turn them off inside and drain them.
- Know where your stop tap is in case a pipe bursts.
Pest infestation cover is included inSmart Home Plus. As well as pests, it covers your boiler, central heating, plumbing, drainage, electrics, and security and lost keys. Landlords can get pest cover with Landlord Smart Home Plus. See landlord cover. Smart Boiler, Smart Heating and Smart Home don't include pest cover.
Yes. It's part of an insurance policy. Smart Cover is a trading name of Smart-Cover Direct Limited (FRN 600428), an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
No. Pest infestation cover pays toremovethe infestation, not to repair damage the pests have caused, such as chewed wiring, insulation, pipes or belongings. Most home insurance policies also exclude gradual pest damage. If pests cause a sudden event, like a fire from gnawed wiring or a leak from a chewed pipe, the resulting damage may be claimable on your home insurance.
It depends on your council. Many councils have reduced or stopped pest control services, or now charge for them, and waiting times can be long. Some still offer free or discounted treatment for rats, sometimes only to people on certain benefits. Check your local council's website. Pest cover gives you 24/7 access to a professional, without depending on council availability.
Yes. Wasp nests in your home are covered under Smart Home Plus, for example in the loft, eaves or wall cavities. If a nest is in an outbuilding, call us to check your cover.Don't try to remove a nest yourself: disturbing it can provoke multiple stings, which can be dangerous, especially for anyone with an allergy.
Yes. Hornet nests are covered and need careful, specialist removal. If you think you've seen anAsian hornet(dark body, yellow-tipped legs, and a mostly dark abdomen with one yellow-orange band), don't approach it. Report sightings using the Asian Hornet Watch app.
Yes. Infestations of black or brown rats are covered under Smart Home Plus. Signs of rats include droppings, gnaw marks, scratching in walls or ceilings at night, burrows near your home, and greasy smear marks along walls. Rats can carry diseases such as Weil's disease, so don't handle them or their droppings.
Yes. Infestations of field or house mice are covered under Smart Home Plus. Signs include small droppings, a musty smell, shredded paper or fabric, gnawed food packaging, and scratching sounds in walls or lofts.
No. Bees aren't covered, and they're important pollinators, so pest controllers usually avoid destroying them. Bumblebee nests are normally best left alone; they're usually short-lived and rarely aggressive. For a honey bee swarm, contact a local beekeeper through the British Beekeepers Association's swarm collector service.
No. Smart Cover pest cover is limited torats, mice, wasp nests and hornet nests. Pests not named in your policy aren't covered, including squirrels, bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, ants, moths, pigeons and moles.
Cover is for infestations affecting your home. Rodents seen only in the garden, for example around a compost heap or bird feeder, usually aren't treated as an emergency. If you find a wasp or hornet nest, or signs of rodents, in a garage or shed, call us on03333 449 559to check whether it's covered under your policy.
- events that aren't emergencies, and call-outs where no infestation is found (the call-out charge is still payable)
- general maintenance and routine prevention
- pests not named in your policy
- infestations or damage that existed before your cover started
- issues not caused by unforeseen circumstances
- repairing damage caused by pests
- homes left unoccupied for 30 or more days in a row
Your policy documents give the full list.
No. Infestations that started before your cover began aren't covered. New homeowner policies also have a 14-day waiting period before you can claim (28 days for landlord policies), so you can't take out cover for a problem you already have. During the waiting period, we can still send help on a pay-on-use basis.
Rodent treatments usually needseveral visits over two to four weeks. The technician lays bait or traps, then returns to check activity and remove bodies. Wasp and hornet nests are usually treated in one visit, with activity dying down within a day or two.
Professional technicians use tamper-resistant bait boxes and place treatments where children and pets can't reach them. Tell the technician about any children, pets or health conditions in your home, and follow their safety advice. Keep pets away from treated areas and dead rodents.
Call our 24/7 emergency helpline on03333 449 247first. Treatment must be arranged through Smart Cover, unless you need to act immediately to protect your home or safety. If you pay your own pest controller without speaking to us, we may not be able to cover the cost. You must tell us about an emergency within 24 hours.
You choose your excess when you buy Smart Home Plus. The excess is what you pay towards each claim, and a higher excess lowers your price.
- droppings, especially in cupboards, lofts and along walls
- gnaw marks on food packaging, wood, cables or pipes
- scratching or scurrying noises at night
- nests made from shredded paper, fabric or insulation
- a strong, musty or ammonia-like smell
- greasy smear marks along skirting boards
- burrows near walls, sheds or decking (rats)
- Seal gaps around pipes, cables and air bricks with wire wool, mesh or metal plates. Mice fit through gaps about the width of a pen.
- Keep food in sealed containers, and clear crumbs and pet food.
- Use bins with tight-fitting lids, and don't overfill them.
- Avoid putting cooked food or meat in compost, and don't overfeed birds.
- Clear clutter and overgrown vegetation next to the house.
- Check drain covers are intact. Rats often get in through damaged drains.
It's not recommended. Rodenticides can harm children, pets and wildlife if used wrongly, and poisoned rodents can die in wall cavities or under floors, causing smells and flies. Professional technicians are trained to use treatments safely and in line with the rules. If you're covered, let us arrange it.
Wasp nests start in spring, grow through summer, and are at their largest and most active inlate summer, typically July to September, when wasps can become more aggressive. Nests are usually abandoned in late autumn and aren't reused. Treating a nest early, while it's small, is quicker and safer.
Yes. Landlord Smart Home Plus includes pest infestation cover for rats, mice, and wasp and hornet nests at your rental property. Landlord policies have a 28-day waiting period before you can claim.
It depends on the cause. Landlords are usually responsible if the infestation comes from the building itself, for example gaps, damaged drains or disrepair, or if pests were there at the start of the tenancy. Tenants are usually responsible if the infestation is caused by how they live in the property, for example poor food storage or rubbish. Check the tenancy agreement, and report problems to your landlord early.
Yes. Pest cover comes with Smart Home Plus Essential. If you're on Smart Boiler, Smart Heating or Smart Home Essential, call03333 449 559to upgrade. We'll confirm the new price and when pest cover starts.
Yes. If you cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund.
After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund, and annual payers get a pro-rata refund minus an admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim. Your policy renews automatically each year, and we'll write to you at least 21 days before renewal.
Smart Cover pest infestation cover is available for homes in mainland England, Wales and Scotland. It isn't available in Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
Appliance Cover
Appliance insurance protects the appliances that you can’t do without! In the event of a breakdown, having appliance insurance will safeguard your electrical, domestic and household appliances including: your cooker, dishwasher, oven, fridge freezer, washing machine and more.
Our home appliances assist us all in carrying out our essential household functions such as cooking, cleaning and food preservation. Thus, being protected by Smart-Cover’s appliance insurance will mean that you do not have to go without your fridge freezer, washing machine or cooker for long periods of time whilst waiting for them to be fixed, or until you purchase a new one.
Appliance repairs and replacements can be costly and stressful which is why it is in your best interest to be protected. When your tumble dryer breaks down or your cooker stops working, the last thing you want is an expensive bill for a repair or a replacement. You can opt to steer clear of this hassle with Smart Cover’s wide-range of appliance insurance plans.
Kitchen appliance insurance covers your appliances which can be found in the kitchen including, your fridge freezer, cooker, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, oven, washer dryer and hob and hood.
Smart-Cover’s flexible home appliance insurance cover enables you to choose which household appliances are most important to you that you wish to protect. We cover your appliances which can be found in the kitchen in the event of mechanical breakdown, electrical breakdown and accidental damage. (Accidental damage excludes televisions).
You can insure as many appliances as you like under one policy. Thus, the number of items you choose to cover is unlimited.
At Smart Cover, we offer protection for a broad-range of appliance types and manufacturers. You can insure an unlimited number of your appliances within your household. The choice is yours!
We can offer insurance for an appliance of any age, however for older appliances the cover may be limited to reduced contribution of the cost of a replacement, or “repair-only” depending on the age of the item. Please check the terms of the policy. In addition, pre-owned, pre-existing faults or second-hand items will not be covered.
Yes, it is required that you provide proof of purchase for every appliance you insure with us
You can claim by reporting any fault to us by calling us on03333 449 559, using our live online chat or by sending us an email. Our helpful and friendly team can be reached over the phone anytime between 9am and 6pm on weekdays and from 10am-4pm on Saturdays. Subject to the age of the appliance and policy terms there may be an excess fee applicable.
Should there ever be an occasion that you are not satisfied with the service we provided and feel that we did not honour our commitments made to you, we will do everything we can to deal with the situation quickly and fairly. If you feel that we failed to deliver our promise made to you, you can complain by simply giving us a call on 03333 449 559 or email us at enquiries@smart-cover.co.uk. Alternatively, you can write to us and we will ensure that your complaint is dealt with promptly. Please see our address below:
Smart Cover
Citibase, 42 – 44 Clarendon Road
Watford WD17 1JJ
In the unfortunate event that you are dissatisfied with our decision, or if we do not conclude our investigation within 8 weeks, you may refer your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). You can either telephone them on 0800 023 4 567 or write to them. Their address is:
Financial Ombudsman Service
Exchange Tower
London E14 9SR
If your appliance stops working as a result of an unforeseen event, we will send an experienced engineer from our UK-wide network straight to your doorstep. Our trusted engineers will do the best they can to fix your appliance but if the item is deemed beyond economical repair, depending on the age of your appliance at policy inception, we will contribute towards a like-for-like replacement based on the specification of your original item.
Our fridge/freezer insurance cover protects you in the event of a breakdown including mechanical and electrical issues as well as accidental damage. The contents within your freezer or fridge/freezer are not covered with appliance insurance.
Our experienced engineers will attempt to fix your fridge in the result of a mechanical or electrical breakdown and accidental damage. However, if they deem your fridge beyond economical repair, depending on the age of your appliance at policy inception, we will contribute towards a like-for-like replacement based on the specification of your original fridge.
Our price match promise on appliance insurance means that if you can find the same cover level at a lower price elsewhere we will match it up to 14 days after your purchase date, subject to terms and conditions. You just need to inform us of the insurance provider, the cover level and price. In the event of this scenario, please email the details to enquiries@smart-cover.co.uk. Once verified we'll aim to match it, subject to our Price Match Terms.
Choose an appliance insurance policy that includes accidental damage. Smart Cover appliance insurance covers accidental damage as well as mechanical and electrical breakdown, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Cosmetic damage that doesn't affect how the appliance works, and deliberate damage or misuse, aren't covered.
Some home insurers offer appliance or accidental damage add-ons, but these often have lower limits and don't cover breakdowns. Smart Cover appliance insurance is a separate policy that works alongside your home insurance. It covers breakdown and accidental damage for your kitchen appliances, and you can cover as many appliances as you like on one policy.
There's no limit on the number of claims you can make during your policy year, across all the appliances on your policy. Each claim is covered up to the per-claim limit shown in your policy documents. Appliances must be used for normal household purposes; if claim activity is far higher than you'd expect from domestic use, we may review your policy.
Yes. You'll need proof of purchase for the appliance you're claiming on, such as a receipt, invoice or bank statement. It confirms the appliance's age, which decides what you're entitled to if it can't be repaired. If the age can't be confirmed, no contribution towards a replacement can be made, so it's worth keeping receipts for every appliance on your policy in one safe place.
Not always. Our engineers repair appliances using quality parts, which may be genuine manufacturer parts or approved third-party parts that do the same job. This helps us get your appliance working again as quickly as possible, especially where manufacturer parts are slow to arrive. All repairs are carried out by qualified engineers from our UK-wide network.
Only if we've agreed it with you first. Always report the fault to our claims team before booking any repair. If we can't provide an engineer, we may authorise you to arrange one yourself, and we'll reimburse you within 5 to 10 working days of receiving a valid invoice. Repairs you arrange without our approval first won't be reimbursed.
Yes. If you cancel within 14 days of your policy starting, or of receiving your documents, you'll get a full refund as long as you haven't made a claim. After that, monthly and quarterly policies can be cancelled but aren't refunded, and annual policies get a pro-rata refund minus an admin fee. No refund is due if a claim has been made. If you pay monthly or quarterly, the remaining premium for the policy year becomes due when you make a claim.
It can be, especially if you have 3 or more appliances to protect. One policy is simpler to manage, and Smart Cover's automatic discounts of up to 30% make each appliance cheaper to cover than buying separate policies. It's most useful if your appliances are out of guarantee and an unexpected repair bill would be hard to pay.
Smart Cover can cover washing machines, tumble dryers, washer dryers, dishwashers, fridges, freezers, fridge freezers, American-style fridge freezers, wine coolers, ovens, cookers, hobs, cooker hoods, microwaves, warming drawers and vacuum cleaners. Each appliance must be under 10 years old when cover starts, and you need proof of purchase for each one. TVs, audio equipment and small appliances such as kettles and toasters aren't covered.
Get a quote online at smart-cover.co.uk/multi-appliance-insurance. Choose each appliance from the cooking, laundry, refrigeration and other categories, enter its brand, age, purchase price and model number, and add it to your cart. Your multi-appliance discount is applied automatically at checkout. You can also call us on 03333 449 559.
Yes. You can add appliances to your multi-appliance insurance whether or not they're still under the manufacturer's warranty, and you can claim on them regardless of warranty status. Adding newer appliances now means there's no gap in cover when their warranties run out, and they count towards your multi-appliance discount straight away. Faults caused by a manufacturer recall or a generic manufacturing defect aren't covered, as these should be put right by the manufacturer.
Contact us before you move. Appliances on your multi-appliance policy that are moved or reinstalled without our prior written approval aren't covered, so let us know your new address and which appliances are going with you. Your new home must be in mainland England, Wales or Scotland for cover to continue. If you're leaving any appliances behind, tell us so we can update your policy.
Yes. Smart Cover washing machine insurance covers accidental damage as well as breakdown, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Cosmetic damage that doesn't affect how the machine works, and deliberate damage or misuse, aren't covered.
Call Smart Cover on 03333 449 559 (Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm), or claim through our website or app. We'll try to diagnose the fault over the phone first. If an engineer is needed, a visit is arranged Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Have your policy number, the appliance's make and model, and proof of purchase ready. If you pay monthly or quarterly, the rest of your annual premium becomes due when you claim.
We try to diagnose the fault over the phone first, which can sometimes fix the problem straight away. If an engineer is needed, we'll arrange a visit as soon as possible, Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm. Timescales depend on your location, engineer availability and whether parts need to be ordered, so we can't guarantee a specific repair time.
Not usually. Second-hand or pre-owned washing machines aren't covered unless they were bought from an approved supplier, and you need proof of purchase for every appliance.
There's no waiting period, so you're covered from your start date. However, a £250 excess applies to claims for events in the first 45 days of your policy (£125 for further claims from that period). After 45 days, the excess is £0 for appliances under 6 years old, or £40 for those 6 years old or more.
A manufacturer's warranty covers faults caused by how the machine was made, usually for 1 to 2 years from purchase, and rarely includes accidental damage. Washing machine insurance covers mechanical and electrical breakdown and accidental damage for as long as you keep the policy. You can take out Smart Cover and claim whether or not your machine is under warranty, but generic manufacturing defects and recalls aren't covered.
Yes. If you cancel within 14 days and haven't claimed, you'll get a full refund. After 14 days, monthly and quarterly payers don't get a refund, and annual payers get a pro-rata refund minus a £25 admin fee. No refund is given if you've made a claim.
Tumble dryer insurance, also called appliance insurance or breakdown cover, pays to repair your tumble dryer if it breaks down or is accidentally damaged. Home insurance usually doesn't cover breakdowns. Smart Cover tumble dryer insurance covers mechanical and electrical breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT.
Usually not for breakdowns. Standard home contents insurance covers events like fire, flood and theft, and some policies add accidental damage as an optional extra. It doesn't normally pay to repair an appliance that stops working because of a mechanical or electrical fault. Appliance insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage. Check your home insurance policy to see what you already have.
A tumble dryer typically lasts around 10 to 13 years, depending on how often it's used and how well it's maintained. Cleaning the lint filter after every load and keeping the vent or condenser clear helps it last longer.
Smart Cover appliance insurance starts from £8.49 a month for one appliance such as a tumble dryer (around 28p a day). The price depends on the appliance, its brand, age and purchase price, and whether you pay monthly or annually. Covering more appliances on one policy lowers the cost per appliance: 2 appliances from £11.99 a month, and automatic discounts of 20% for 3 or more, 25% for 5 or more and 30% for 7 or more. Get a quote for your exact price.
Yes. A 5-year-old tumble dryer can be covered, as long as you have proof of purchase and it has no existing faults. Because it's under 6 years old when cover starts, it qualifies for a full replacement up to its declared value if it can't be repaired.
In the UK you can usually choose a manufacturer's extended warranty, a retailer protection plan, or appliance insurance from a specialist insurer. Some home insurance policies also offer accidental damage add-ons. Smart Cover offers tumble dryer insurance on its own or as part of a multi-appliance policy, covering breakdown and accidental damage.
Not necessarily. You can insure your tumble dryer on its own, or add it to a multi-appliance policy with your other appliances. Covering several appliances together is usually better value, because Smart Cover's multi-appliance discounts apply automatically.
Usually not for breakdowns. Home contents insurance normally covers cookers for events like fire or theft, and sometimes accidental damage as an add-on, but not mechanical or electrical faults. Cooker insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage.
Smart Cover appliance insurance starts from £8.49 a month for one appliance such as a cooker (around 28p a day). The price depends on the appliance, its brand, age and purchase price, and whether you pay monthly or annually. Covering more appliances on one policy lowers the cost per appliance: 2 appliances from £11.99 a month, and automatic discounts of 20% for 3 or more, 25% for 5 or more and 30% for 7 or more. Get a quote for your exact price.
Get a quote for Smart Cover cooker insurance online at smart-cover.co.uk/appliance-insurance/cooker-insurance, or call 03333 449 559. You'll need your cooker's brand, age, purchase price and model number.
You can usually choose a manufacturer's extended warranty, a retailer protection plan, or appliance insurance from a specialist insurer. Smart Cover cooker insurance covers mechanical and electrical breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Range cookers can also be covered, with a £250 excess for the first 6 months.
Options include manufacturer extended warranties, retailer protection plans and specialist appliance insurers. When comparing, check the claim limit, the excess, whether accidental damage is included, the age limit for appliances, what happens if the appliance can't be repaired, and whether the provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Smart Cover appliance insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT, with unlimited claims and discounts when you cover several appliances. Comparison sites can help you compare prices and features.
Smart Cover cooker insurance covers accidental damage as well as mechanical and electrical breakdown, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. If an engineer decides the appliance is beyond economical repair, Smart Cover contributes towards a replacement based on its age when your cover started: a full replacement up to its declared value if it's under 6 years old, or 50% if it's 6 to 10 years old. Delivery, installation and removal aren't covered. Fire, theft, routine cleaning, wear and tear and cosmetic damage that doesn't affect how the cooker works aren't covered.
Dishwasher insurance, also called appliance insurance or breakdown cover, pays to repair your dishwasher if it breaks down or is accidentally damaged. Home insurance usually doesn't cover breakdowns. Smart Cover dishwasher insurance covers mechanical and electrical breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT.
Extended warranties are usually offered by the manufacturer or the retailer when you buy. As an alternative, appliance insurance such as Smart Cover's covers breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT, and you can add it at any time while your dishwasher is under 10 years old. Compare the claim limit, excess, accidental damage cover and what happens if it can't be repaired.
Prices vary between providers. Smart Cover dishwasher insurance starts from £8.49 a month, and you can pay monthly or annually. The price depends on your dishwasher's brand, age and purchase price. Covering several appliances on one policy lowers the cost per appliance. Get a quote for your exact price.
If your dishwasher leaks because of a mechanical or electrical fault, Smart Cover covers the repair to the dishwasher, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Damage the water causes to your floors, units or belongings isn't covered by appliance insurance. Claim for that on your home insurance. Leaks caused by blockages from food debris or poor maintenance aren't covered.
Oven insurance, also called appliance insurance or breakdown cover, pays to repair your oven if it breaks down or is accidentally damaged. Home insurance usually doesn't cover breakdowns. Smart Cover oven insurance covers mechanical and electrical breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT.
Contents insurance usually covers an oven for events like fire, flood or theft, and sometimes accidental damage as an optional extra. It doesn't normally cover mechanical or electrical breakdown, such as a faulty element, thermostat or fan. Oven insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage.
Compare the claim limit, the excess, whether accidental damage is included, the age limit, what happens if the oven can't be repaired, and whether the provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID) before you buy. Smart Cover covers breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT, with unlimited claims.
Yes. Smart Cover can insure ovens from most brands, as long as the oven is under 10 years old when cover starts and you have proof of purchase. Integrated ovens can be covered, but the cost of alterations needed to install a replacement isn't included.
Get a quote online at smart-cover.co.uk/appliance-insurance/oven-insurance, or call 03333 449 559. Choose your oven, enter its brand, age, purchase price and model number, and choose to pay monthly or annually. You can add other appliances to the same policy for a multi-appliance discount.
No. Routine cleaning and maintenance aren't covered by oven insurance. The policy covers repairs when the oven breaks down or is accidentally damaged.
You can buy Smart Cover washer dryer insurance online at smart-cover.co.uk/appliance-insurance/washer-dryer-insurance, or call 03333 449 559. You'll need your washer dryer's brand, age, purchase price and model number.
Options include manufacturer extended warranties, retailer protection plans and specialist appliance insurers. When comparing, check the claim limit, the excess, whether accidental damage is included, the age limit for appliances, what happens if the appliance can't be repaired, and whether the provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Smart Cover appliance insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT, with unlimited claims and discounts when you cover several appliances. Comparison sites can help you compare prices and features.
Many appliance insurers include accidental damage, while manufacturer warranties usually don't. Smart Cover washer dryer insurance covers accidental damage as well as mechanical and electrical breakdown, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Check each provider's policy documents to confirm what's included.
Prices vary between providers. Smart Cover washer dryer insurance starts from £8.49 a month, and you can pay monthly or annually. The price depends on the washer dryer's brand, age and purchase price. Covering several appliances on one policy lowers the cost per appliance. Get a quote for your exact price.
Compare the claim limit, the excess, whether accidental damage is included, the age limit and what happens if the appliance can't be repaired. Check whether the provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Smart Cover covers hobs and hoods against breakdown and accidental damage, up to £500 per claim, including the call-out, labour, parts and VAT. Faults with your home's gas or electricity supply aren't covered. Gas appliances must only be repaired by Gas Safe registered engineers.
Usually not for breakdowns. Home contents insurance normally covers hobs and hoods for events like fire or theft, and sometimes accidental damage as an add-on, but not mechanical or electrical faults. Appliance insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage.
Yes, if the crack was caused accidentally and stops your hob working properly, it can be covered under the accidental damage section of your hob and hood insurance, subject to your policy terms. Cosmetic damage that doesn't affect how the hob works, such as light scratches or small chips, isn't covered. Damage caused deliberately, or by misuse or not following the manufacturer's instructions, isn't covered either.
No. Hob and hood insurance covers faults with the appliance itself, such as a failed igniter, gas valve or control board. Problems caused by your home's gas, electricity or water supply aren't covered. If you smell gas, turn off the supply at the meter if it's safe to do so, open windows, and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 straight away.
If parts for your hob or hood are obsolete or can't be sourced, your appliance is treated as beyond economical repair. We'll then contribute towards a replacement based on its age when your cover started: a replacement up to its declared value if it was under 6 years old, or a partial contribution if it was 6 to 10 years old. Delivery, installation and removal costs aren't included, and nor is any work needed to fit a replacement into your kitchen units.
Usually not for breakdowns. Home contents insurance normally covers a fridge freezer for events like fire or theft, and sometimes accidental damage as an add-on, and some policies cover food spoilage. It doesn't normally cover mechanical or electrical faults. Fridge freezer insurance covers breakdown and accidental damage.
Yes. Your fridge freezer must be under 10 years old when your policy starts. Please give its age as accurately as you can when you take out cover, because the age at the start of your policy also affects how much we can contribute towards a replacement if it can't be repaired. If you're unsure of the exact age, check your receipt, bank statement or the manufacturing date on the rating plate inside the appliance.
Yes. You'll be asked for proof of purchase when you make a claim, such as a receipt, invoice or bank statement showing the purchase. It confirms the appliance's age, which decides what you're entitled to. If the age can't be confirmed, we can still arrange a repair, but no contribution towards a replacement can be made if the appliance turns out to be beyond economical repair.
Yes. You can take out cover and make a claim whether or not your fridge freezer is still under its manufacturer's warranty. Starting cover early means there's no gap when the warranty ends. Please note that faults caused by a manufacturer recall or a known design defect across that model aren't covered, as these should be put right by the manufacturer.
If the engineer finds that repair costs would be too high compared to the appliance's value, that parts are no longer available, or that it isn't safe to repair, it's classed as beyond economical repair. What you receive then depends on its age when your policy started: under 6 years, a replacement up to its declared value; 6 to 10 years, a partial contribution towards a replacement. Delivery, installation and removal of the old appliance aren't included.
Your cover starts from your policy start date, but a higher excess applies to claims for faults that happen in the first 45 days. After that, the standard excess applies, which depends on your appliance's age. Faults that existed before your policy started aren't covered at any point. Full excess details are in your IPID and policy terms.
Landlord Cover
Landlord home emergency cover helps landlords deal with certain sudden problems at a rental property that need urgent attention.
It can help with call-out charges, labour, parts, and materials for covered emergencies, depending on the plan. The page also states that cover can include emergency alternative accommodation for tenants where applicable under the policy.
This type of cover is designed for emergencies, not general maintenance or routine repairs. Claims are subject to policy terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions.
A landlord may need different types of landlord insurance depending on the rental property, tenancy, mortgage requirements, and the level of protection they want.
Landlord home emergency cover is designed to help with certain urgent problems at a rental property, such as boiler breakdown, heating failure, plumbing issues, electrical faults, and other emergency repairs, depending on the plan selected. It is not the same as standard buildings or contents insurance.
You should check what cover you already have and compare it with the landlord home emergency cover options available, including the policy terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions.
Landlord cover is for landlords who own a rental property and want support with certain home emergencies affecting their tenants or property.
It may be suitable if you are responsible for maintaining essential systems such as the boiler, heating, plumbing, drainage, or electrics in the rented home. The right plan will depend on your property setup, your responsibilities as a landlord, and the level of emergency support you want.
Before choosing landlord insurance or landlord home emergency cover, check the eligibility criteria, policy documents, and any exclusions that apply.
The best landlord home emergency cover is the plan that matches your property, your tenants’ needs, and the systems you want to protect.
For example, a boiler-focused plan may suit landlords who mainly want support for emergency boiler breakdown and internal gas supply pipe issues. A wider home emergency plan may be more suitable if you also want cover for heating, plumbing, electrics, drainage, security and lock keys, or pest infestation, depending on the plan selected.
There is no single best option for every landlord. Compare the cover levels, claim limits, exclusions and optional extras before choosing.
Landlord home emergency cover may be worth considering if you want help managing urgent repair issues at your rental property.
It can support you with covered emergency repairs, call-out charges, labour, parts and materials, depending on the policy. This may be useful if a boiler breaks down, heating fails, plumbing causes damage, electrics stop working, or another covered emergency affects your tenants.
Whether it is suitable depends on your property, existing insurance, maintenance arrangements and budget. Review the policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions to decide if it meets your needs.
Landlord home emergency cover can include support for urgent issues that affect key systems in a rental property.
Depending on the plan, cover may include:
- Emergency boiler breakdown
- Internal gas supply pipe
- Domestic central heating
- Internal plumbing
- Electricals
- Drainage
- External water supply pipe
- Security and lock keys
- Pest infestation
- Optional annual boiler service
The plans shown include an unlimited annual claim limit and a £500 per claim limit. Exclusions include non-emergencies, general maintenance, removal of limescale, sludge or debris, boilers not serviced within the last 12 months, and leaks that do not cause damage to the property. Cover is subject to policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.
The difference between these landlord plans is the level of cover provided for rental properties and the types of systems included.
Landlord Smart Boiler
Covers the boiler only, including breakdowns, servicing, and a CP12 certificate. It does not include central heating or other home systems.
Landlord Smart Heating
Includes boiler cover along with the central heating system, offering wider protection for heating-related issues in the property.
Landlord Smart Home
Provides more comprehensive cover, including boiler, central heating, plumbing, electrics, and drainage, helping landlords manage a wider range of home emergencies.
Landlord Smart Home Plus
Offers the most extensive level of cover. It includes everything in Landlord Smart Home, with additional protection for pest infestations and security & lock issues.
All plans include an annual gas safety check (CP12 certificate) and are designed to support landlords in maintaining essential home systems. Cover is subject to policy terms, conditions, exclusions, and claim limits.
Motor Breakdown Cover
We cover a very large variety of vehicles, such as:
Car, Minibus, Classic Car, Bike, Van, Taxi Minibus, Taxi Car, Motor Home
You will have only annual payment option.
Annual payments are the cheapest option for a 12 months cover, you can pay upfront for a full year and automatically renew each year.
Breakdown cover it is not a legal requirement, however a motor breakdown can happen at any time regardless of the age of your vehicle. By getting covered with Smart Cover, you can rest assured that that a helping hand will always be there, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Billing & Claims
You can start a claim online via the Make a Claim page, through the Smart Cover app (iOS/Android), or by calling 03333 449 559. Have your policy number and a description of the issue ready - this helps us assess and progress your claim faster.
An excess is the amount you contribute towards the cost of a claim. Whether - and how much - an excess applies depends on your plan; some plans are excess-free while others have a fixed excess per claim. This is shown clearly in your policy documents before you buy.
Smart Cover aims to offer stable renewal pricing rather than steep introductory-then-increase pricing. Any change to your premium at renewal will be communicated to you in advance so you can review before it takes effect.
You can cancel at any time. If you cancel within your statutory cooling-off period (usually 14 days from purchase) and haven't made a claim, you're generally entitled to a full refund. After this period, pro-rata refunds may be available - see your policy's cancellation terms for full details.
If you're unhappy with the outcome or handling of a claim, please contact us first so we can try to resolve it. If we're unable to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction, you may be entitled to refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service, free of charge.
Account & Regulatory
Smart-Cover Direct Limited is an Appointed Representative of City and Commercial Limited (FRN 314346), who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. You can verify Smart-Cover Direct Limited on the FCA register under FRN 600428.
Changes to your address, contact details or property information can be made by logging into your account online, through the app, or by contacting our support team directly. Keeping these details current helps ensure your cover remains valid.
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