Compare Home Emergency Insurance
A boiler failing on a January night or a burst pipe flooding your kitchen isn't just inconvenient — it's expensive. Home emergency cover gives you 24/7 access to qualified tradespeople and protection against callout costs that can run to hundreds of pounds.
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- 24-hour emergency claims
- Up to £5,000 per policy year
- Parts and labour included
- No admin or call-out fees
247 Home Rescue
- Eligible for 2-year price fix
- Boiler breakdown cover
- Annual boiler service included
- Available for landlords and homeowners
British Gas HomeCare
- Annual boiler service
- Boiler and controls cover
- Central heating, plumbing and drains
- Home electrics
HomeServe
- Unlimited number of claims
- Boiler, heating, plumbing or electrics
- Heat pump service plans
- Manage your cover online 24/7
Prices and availability correct at time of last update. Always check directly with the provider.
Provider details, prices and availability are correct at the time of writing and subject to change without notice. Always verify current terms and pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
What does home emergency insurance cover?
Heating and boiler
Breakdowns affecting your central heating or hot water supply — the most commonly claimed area. Usually covers emergency repairs to restore function.
Plumbing and drainage
Burst pipes, blocked drains affecting the sole facility in the property, leaking radiators and pipework.
Electrics
Complete loss of power or dangerous faults affecting the whole system. Individual appliance failures are generally excluded.
What's typically excluded
Pre-existing faults, lack of maintenance, boilers over 10–15 years old, unserviced systems, routine wear and tear, and cosmetic repairs.
Common questions
Do I need home emergency insurance if I have home insurance?
Standard home insurance covers structural damage and contents but doesn't typically cover emergency callouts or system repairs like your boiler. Home emergency cover fills that gap.
What counts as a home emergency?
A home emergency is typically defined as a sudden, unexpected event that makes your home unsafe or uninhabitable. Common examples include a complete boiler breakdown, burst pipe, failed electrics, or a broken-down front door lock.
Is home emergency cover worth it?
A single call-out from a plumber or emergency electrician can cost £150–£300 or more. For a policy that costs £50–£100 per year, the cover can pay for itself with one claim. It is particularly valuable if your boiler is older or your home is large.
What is not covered by home emergency insurance?
Policies typically exclude gradual deterioration or wear and tear, pre-existing faults, cosmetic damage, and items covered by a manufacturer's guarantee. Most also exclude outbuildings unless specifically added.
Does home emergency cover rental properties?
Some providers offer home emergency insurance for landlords covering buy-to-let properties. Check whether the policy is for owner-occupiers only, as most standard policies are.
What's the difference between home emergency cover and a boiler service plan?
Home emergency insurance responds to unexpected breakdowns. A boiler service plan typically includes an annual service plus repair cover — more comprehensive but more expensive.
Are there waiting periods?
Most policies impose a waiting period of 14–30 days from inception before cover becomes active. Check before buying if you need immediate cover.
Home emergency vs boiler cover — what's the difference?
Home emergency cover
Covers a broad range of sudden emergencies — boiler breakdown, burst pipes, electrical failure, roof damage, and more. Focuses on making your home safe again quickly.
Boiler service plan
Typically covers just the boiler (and sometimes central heating). Often includes an annual service. Better for ongoing boiler maintenance; home emergency cover is broader.
Further reading: Your Essential Guide to Home Emergency Insurance