Question: On the list of items that are covered by the scheme, will it also cover works to:

Rendering

Guttering

Window installation / renovation (non-uVPC e.g. timber sash windows)

Damp proofing

Electrical works

Landscaping Only uVPC decking covered?

Internal / external decorating works

Answer: We can cover all of the above apart from, Damp Proofing, General Electrical Works (unless part of the installation of a product i.e. solar), internal / external decorating. Landscaping includes decking, fencing and patio/paving. The policy will also cover wooden outbuildings i.e garden office room.

Question: The sample guarantee states a claim can only be made if the company has ceased trading. What happens if the company is still trading but unable to cover repairs? e.g. no longer gas safe registered / WRAS approved / no longer covers roofing work?

Answer: The policy will only cover the consumer against cessation of business. If the installers accreditation for gas/electrics expires, under the original guarantee (if covered) they are still obligated to undertake any remedial works. In the absence of the suitable accreditation(s) they will have to subcontract that work to a third party at their own expense.

Question: In the event of a claim, will there be attempts to recover costs from the building firm or persons involved with the company?

Answer: As there a no personal or directors guarantees obtained under the provision of guarantee insurance the answer is no. However if the consumer is not issued with a full written contract, obtained planning permission (if applicable) and be given a policy they will not be covered by insurance, so the consumer themselves may approach the building firm for compensation.

Question: Is the guarantee only for domestic customers?

Answer: Commercial insurance can be obtained but the premium is calculated as a percentage of the contract –  ranging from 1.5 % – at point of application.

Question: Can a guarantee be issued to a management company of a block of flats (I do a lot of work for properties which consist of several flats, the owners of which run their own management company to handle repairs etc.)

Answer: Yes this is deemed commercial as no one person residing in the property would necessarily be responsible for the upkeep of certain aspects of the building (hence the management company handling repairs etc)

Question: Is it ok to request cover after a job is complete? With some works, the final cost is not known until completion so that section of the form could not be completed until the job has been finished.

Answer: Retrospective insurance can be provided.

Question : Do you require a copy of the contractors guarantee as given to the customer?

Answer: Yes, to ensure that the guarantees are fair to the consumer and would also be covered under the guarantee insurance.