Changes to BG HomeCare - insurance not service?

silverfoxuk

I've just received our BG HomeCare 400 Flexi Renewal (£377.30 annual for 400 Flexi + living rm gas fire cover (£99) + gas hob 'check' (£61.50)).

Works out at £31.46 per month (£50 excess on any call out excluding annual service).

Anyway, there's lots of info with the renewal advising that BG HomeCare is changing from a 'service' to 'insurance' scheme and I'm really baffled by what it all means. Does anyone know why the change and what benefit to customers?

One I can think of is that insurance tax i only 5% whereas service agreements incur VAT at 17.5%, but not that BG have lowered my price at all.

Any change in the actual terms of service I should be aware of? The cover looks similar - if it is, I'm wondering why BG would change the type of cover? :think:

espresso

Are you really sure that it's worth paying out good money for?

Did you read this thread here?

Read the full terms & conditions including all of the exclusions here!

silverfoxuk

Thanks. We live in a semi build around 10 years ago, combi boiler is in kitchen cupboard with flu directly to outside wall so servicing not too tricky.

I've always found BG folk to be helpful and spend at least an hour or so when servicing the boiler and gas fire, but I appreciate some have had issues.

Just wan't sure what the change to an isurance based plan was for and if it was any benefit or not. I could add the 'emergency' cover on to my home insurance I guess, but then I would have to find another engineer to carry out the annual service. And if the boiler breaks down in summer, central heating is not an issue but I would want the hot water covered. Seems 'easier' to stay with BG but I know might not be the cheapest option?

jack_spratt_2

I believe if you wish you can keep on the old scheme if you ask !!! they say the benefits of the new scheme is that it includes accidental damage !!
There is one thing for sure that any changes to the plan will suit British Gas more than the customer but maybe I am just cynical