Typically covers white goods like washing machines, dishwashers, tumble dryers, fridge freezers, and other appliances. 

It can be a financial safety net, especially for expensive appliances that you rely on daily. 

A policy might cover the cost of an engineer visit, labour, parts, and even the replacement of an appliance if it’s beyond repair. 

• Exclusions: Some policies might exclude cosmetic damage, wear and tear, or appliances over a certain age. 
  
   
• Pre-existing faults: Some policies may not cover repairs for faults that existed before the policy was taken out. 
  
   
• Comparison: It’s wise to compare different insurance providers and policies to find the best coverage and price for your
  Home appliance insurance cover in the UK: a detailed guide
  Home appliance insurance, also known as electrical goods insurance, white goods insurance, or appliance breakdown cover, is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect your household appliances against unexpected repair costs or the expense of replacement in the event of a breakdown or accidental damage. This differs from standard home contents insurance, which typically only covers appliances against specific perils like fire, theft, or flood, and generally won’t cover mechanical or electrical breakdowns. 
   
  What is covered?
  Appliance insurance policies in the UK typically cover a wide array of domestic appliances, often focusing on larger items commonly referred to as “white goods”. Common examples include: 
  • Washing machines
  • Fridge-freezers
  • Ovens and cookers
  • Dishwashers
  • Tumble dryers
  • Microwaves 
  Some policies may extend to cover a broader range of appliances, including:
  • TVs and entertainment systems
  • Vacuum cleaners
  • Coffee machines
  • Air fryers 
  It’s crucial to consult the specific policy documents to understand the exact list of covered appliances and any limitations or exclusions. Policies may also cover: 
  • Mechanical or electrical breakdown: This is the most common reason for claiming on appliance insurance, covering malfunctions due to normal wear and tear or manufacturing defects that occur after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
  • Accidental damage: Some policies offer cover for accidental damage, though exclusions may apply (e.g., TVs may not be covered under accidental damage).
  • Parts, labor, and call-out charges: Many policies cover the full cost of repairing the appliance, including the expense of spare parts, the technician’s labor, and the call-out fee.
  • Replacement if beyond repair: If the appliance is deemed irreparable or the cost of repair exceeds a certain threshold (often tied to the appliance’s age), the policy may offer a replacement or contribute towards the cost of a new appliance. The replacement value might depend on the age of the appliance, for example, 100% replacement for appliances less than 3 years old and a lower percentage for older ones. 
   
  Policy terms and considerations
  • Age of appliance: Most insurers impose age restrictions on covered appliances, often capping cover at 8 years old. Older appliances are considered higher risk and may not be eligible for coverage.
  • Policy duration: Appliance insurance policies are typically valid for 12 months and can be renewed. Longer policy terms might also be available.
  • Single item vs. bundled policies: You can choose to insure a single appliance or bundle multiple appliances under one policy, which is often more cost-effective.
  • Excess: An excess, a predetermined amount you pay towards a claim before the insurer contributes, is typically part of appliance insurance policies. Choosing a higher excess can reduce the premium but means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if you need to claim.
  • Exclusions: It’s vital to read the policy document thoroughly to understand any exclusions, such as damage caused by negligence, lack of maintenance, or pre-existing faults. 
   
  Is appliance insurance worth it?
  The decision to purchase appliance insurance is personal and depends on several factors. 
  • Value of appliances: If you own expensive or crucial appliances (like a large fridge-freezer or a smart appliance), the potential cost of repair or replacement could justify the insurance premium.
  • Age of appliances: Older appliances are more prone to breakdowns and are often out of their manufacturer’s warranty period, making insurance a more attractive option.
  • Dependence on appliances: If you rely heavily on certain appliances, like a washing machine, appliance insurance can provide peace of mind and minimize disruption if a breakdown occurs.
  • Existing coverage: Check if your home contents insurance includes accidental damage cover that might extend to appliances. However, remember that standard contents insurance generally won’t cover mechanical breakdowns. Some extended warranties, particularly those offered by retailers, might provide similar coverage, but it’s important to compare their terms and conditions with appliance insurance policies. 
   
  Key takeaways
  Home appliance insurance can offer valuable protection for your domestic appliances against breakdowns and unexpected repair or replacement costs. It’s especially useful for older appliances or those no longer covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Before making a purchase, compare policies from different providers, carefully review the coverage details, consider the cost versus potential benefit, and factor in the excess.