Should tenants get covered?

As the winter weather draws in, many people renting a home may be quick to turn up their central heating.

However, they may wish to purchase or find out if their landlord has heating insurance in order to ensure that if their boiler breaks down they will not be left waiting in the cold for repairs.

But research by uSwitch.com has revealed that 42 per cent of households have either not renewed or purchased heating cover this year, with a desire to save money thought to be the biggest motive.

The group warns that this step could see people left facing an expensive repair bill or left out in the cold if they cannot afford for the damage to be fixed.

Will Marples, energy expert at uSwitch.com, said: "Those who have cancelled or decided against cover might think they are just taking a chance with their money, but if they are also not getting their boiler checked they are taking a chance with their health."

The group also claimed 42 per cent of people do not have their boiler serviced every year.

People looking for flats to rent in Blackheath or another part of London may be interested to hear that National Landlords Association claims it is the landlord's responsibility to have gas appliances regularly serviced.

Written by Ben Carter

Published 4th November, 2009

© 2009 Estates IT Limited