2 January 2007
Consumers who do not purchase heating cover are putting themselves in "real danger" according to Geoff Slaughter, product manager at the price comparison and switching website uSwitch.com.
In a recent questionnaire carried out by uSwitch the results revealed that the average call-out costs £33 per hour, with 25% of those questioned stating that they had paid in excess of £100 to get their boiler problem fixed.
A further 28% of 'uncovered' consumers said they had to spend more than two days in the cold and without hot water while they waited for an available plumber.
Consumers appear to be falling into the trap of believing that heating cover is an unnecessary expense, according to Mr Slaughter.
"The decision to take out heating cover is often viewed as an unnecessary expense but when you consider the prospect of being without hot water and heating in the winter months, or being landed with a bill for as much as £4,706, heating cover becomes incredibly cost effective," he said.
"There is a real danger that the mild autumn has lulled consumers into a false sense of security," Mr Slaughter warned.
"The reality is that boilers tend to break down more frequently in the winter months, yet it is often more difficult to get an engineer at this time due to the high demand."
Many heating cover holders are unaware that they can choose a company other than their gas supplier, so homeowners are advised to take the time to look at what all of the available insurers can offer.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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