@jamespa this is what I thought when I read the policy but then upon conversation with their customer service they said there was nothing to update as they do not even mention them in the policy (and booklet). As per above, I then accepted the argument. Upon revision, I see that in the booklet they only mention the wording heating systems (so I guess I should be covered at least in terms of damages even if I won't have emergency service as they would offer for a gas-based system). Soon for an updated post on the newly installed system!

Posted by: @eliuccio

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@jamespa this is what I thought when I read the policy but then upon conversation with their customer service they said there was nothing to update as they do not even mention them in the policy (and booklet). As per above, I then accepted the argument. Upon revision, I see that in the booklet they only mention the wording heating systems (so I guess I should be covered at least in terms of damages even if I won't have emergency service as they would offer for a gas-based system). Soon for an updated post on the newly installed system!

If it says heating system it should cover you for damage unless there is an exclusion.  I would challenge them if they claim otherwise, then keep a record of their response!

@eliuccio this is the ambiguity that is really getting my under skin when it comes to heat pumps. A central heating system is a central heating system.

Our previous policy had us "heating system" and when we had an issue that was related to the heating, not the heat pump specifically they enquired and called us back to say that heat pumps were not covered. Which is ridiculous. 

If there are no personal details in your booklet can you send it to me? DM or editor@renewableheatinghub.co.uk 

I'll keep you "anonymous" but I will raise this with the powers-that-be for comment, and ruffle some feathers.

Posted by: @editor

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Our previous policy had us "heating system" and when we had an issue that was related to the heating, not the heat pump specifically they enquired and called us back to say that heat pumps were not covered. Which is ridiculous. 

... and incorrect given the wording you quote.  I bet they would lose if you challenged it in court or through the ombudsman.  As you say

Posted by: @editor

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A central heating system is a central heating system.

It seems to me that, if it says 'heating system' then there is no ambiguity and, unless heat pump based systems are expressly excluded, the internal components are clearly included.  The definition of the 'house' or 'home' may however exclude the outside, in which case the ODU (but not the internal components) may be excluded by default. 

A contract is a contract; someone from a call centre cant change the contract unilaterally, however much they may be incentivised to do so!

To make things clear, lots of insurance companies cover heat pumps, some dinosaurs will not, a few have been known to waffle on about 'units in the garden' at which point you tell them it is physically attached to your plumbing and heating (but make a mental note to look elsewhere for cover upon renewal).

Emergency cover is a whole otra cosa and you need to check the terms carefully because you don't want some random gas guy turning up to fix your heat pump and afaik most won't cover heat pumps (although they 'may' cover the hot water.)

However, when you install a heat pump you are supposed to notify your insurance company BEFORE work starts. This is notifiable building work in terms of building regs and it has an impact on your physical property so your insurer will want to know your installer is covered. 

I was actually surprised when both Tesco and one of the basic cheapies didn't blink when I said heat pump. Tesco said: "of course".  So it's not difficult to get cover but don't take it for granted - check and get the answer in writing.

Really, we should just make a list of insurers that are ok covering heat pumps (not heating unspecified) and make it a sticky because threads like this get a bit repetitive and it might help people before installation. (And we can shame by omission 😁) 

I told Tesco last year I would share the insurance info in a heat pump forum.