Can I get HomeCare if my boiler is out of warranty?

What does it mean for a boiler to be “out of warranty”?

A boiler warranty is a promise from the manufacturer to fix faults or replace parts for a set time after it’s installed. These warranties usually last for 2, 3 or 5 years, though some can be longer.

When a boiler is out of warranty, that time has run out. This means if something goes wrong, the manufacturer won’t pay for repairs or a replacement. Without cover, you would have to find an engineer and pay for the repairs yourself.

Can you still get HomeCare if your boiler is out of warranty?

Yes, absolutely! Unlike some other insurers, we cover boilers of any age. It doesn't matter if your manufacturer's warranty expired yesterday or five years ago.

You can sign up for HomeCare as long as your boiler is in good working order when you join. We just need to make sure we can still get the parts to fix it. HomeCare is designed to give you peace of mind by covering future repairs and servicing, ensuring your home stays warm and working.

What checks will British Gas perform?

When you take out insurance for boilers out of warranty, we need to check that your system is safe and fit for cover.

Once your cover starts, we will carry out an initial service visit. During this visit, an expert engineer will:

• Check that your boiler is on our approved list and that we can still get spare parts for it
• Make sure your boiler is working safely and efficiently
• Check for any pre-existing faults (problems that were there before you took out cover)

If we find any issues we can't cover, our engineer will explain why and talk you through your options.

What does HomeCare cover for boilers include?

HomeCare helps you avoid the worry of unexpected bills. Whether your boiler is new or old, our cover includes:

• Unlimited repairs: Repairs to your gas boiler, controls and gas supply pipes
• Parts and labour: We pay for the parts and the work to fit them
• Annual boiler service: A yearly check by a Gas Safe engineer to keep everything running safely
• Accidental damage: Protection if you accidentally damage your system
• Same-day service: If you have no heating or hot water and tell us by 11am, we aim to be there the same day (based on 2025 performance data, 80% of customers without heating or hot water contacting us by 11am received a same-day service)

What is not covered if your boiler is out of warranty?

While HomeCare covers a lot, there are some things we don’t cover. It is important to check your terms and conditions, but general exclusions include:

• Pre-existing faults: Any problems your boiler had before you joined or that happen within the first 14 days of your cover
• Sludge and scale: Removing sludge (dirty water) or limescale from your system, or repairing damage caused by it
• Cosmetic repairs: Fixes that don’t affect how the boiler works, like scratches or dents
• Certain replacements: We offer a replacement boiler if yours is less than 7 years old (or less than 10 years old if we installed it) and we can’t repair it. If your out-of-warranty boiler is older than this, we will still try to repair it, but a free replacement isn't included

What checks will British Gas perform?

When you take out insurance for boilers out of warranty, we need to check that your system is safe and fit for cover.

Once your cover starts, we will carry out an initial service visit. During this visit, an expert engineer will:

• Check that your boiler is on our approved list and that we can still get spare parts for it
• Make sure your boiler is working safely and efficiently
• Check for any pre-existing faults (problems that were there before you took out cover)

If we find any issues we can't cover, our engineer will explain why and talk you through your options.

How to decide if HomeCare is right for you with an older or out-of-warranty boiler

If your boiler is over 10 years old, it is more likely to break down. Here is how to decide if cover like HomeCare is the right move:

1. Check the cost: One-off boiler repairs can add up quickly, especially if an emergency repair or major component replacement is needed. Consider this risk when comparing it with the monthly cost of cover.

2. Think about parts: We have a huge network of suppliers, making it easier for us to find parts for older systems than a local tradesperson.

3. Value peace of mind: With cover, you don’t need to search for a trusted engineer in an emergency. You have access to our nationwide network with thousands of engineers.

Protect your home today

Don’t wait for a breakdown to happen. Sign up for a HomeCare maintenance plan today and enjoy 24/7 access to qualified engineers. With parts, labour and an annual service included, you can relax knowing we are taking care of things. Avoid the stress of surprise repair costs and keep your home warm all year round.