Plumber And Drains Cover

[OldChestNuts]

Have anyone have used British Gas Plumber and Drains cover?
I got a leaking tap and wonder if it can't be repaired, do they replace a new tap. Below is the statement and I am not sure 100% what it means:

"A replacement of parts that we can't repair. We will replace a pair of taps to a single item of sanitary ware where only one can't be repaired."

Or do I need to buy a new tap and get them to replace.?

[bhg481]

I think what it means is that if you have matching taps on your bath and basin and one basin tap can't be repaired, they will replace both basin taps which then might not be the same as the bath taps.

[OldChestNuts]

Do you think they will supply the new tap as well?
I got a mixer tap and it is leaking...

[OldChestNuts]

The definition of "replace" is unclear.

[bhg481]

To me means "replace at their expense"; in other words, if you do need a new tap they will provide it. If the replacement doesn't match the other tap on a single unit they will replace both taps but they will not pay for taps on another unit just to keep it matching the faulty one.
By "leaking" I assume you mean it drips. If that is the case, most modern taps have a cartridge instead of a tap-washer, and these are replaceable. The chances are that they will only need to replace the cartridge in your tap and that no replacement tap will be necessary.

[The Builder]

^^^I agree with bhg there.

The "replace" bit certainly isn't clear, but I doubt they'll have to do that.............. unless the pair are really ancient ;o)

[OldChestNuts]

Bhg, thanks for your interpretation. I now found a longer statement in their terms and conditions. It basically says what you stated above. This was what I thought that when I joined the cover.
However, when I booked the repair today, the agent say if they can't repair it, I have to buy my own tap and they will fit it. So that doesn't sound right. So I checked with you guys here on the interpretation. I will see what the plumber says when he turns up tomorrow.
In terms of the leaking or dripping tap, I think it is too old to replace the cartridge of it has one. Do it's more like a new one is needed. I don't mind buying them one to fit, but I can't seem to get it from Wicks or Homebase.

[OldChestNuts]

This is the long version of the terms and conditions:

"Replacement parts
We’ll try to get parts from the original
manufacturer or our approved suppliers.
We’ll try to provide replacements with
similar functionality but not necessarily
the same features or an identical make and
model or type of fitting. For example, we
may replace a specific design of tap with
a standard one from our range or replace
electrical fittings with our nearest white,
brass or chrome version. Or you can give
the engineer a replacement part that
you’ve bought yourself, that we approve,
but we’ll only accept responsibility for
our workmanship.
If we can’t get hold of the parts we may need
to cancel your agreement (or part of it).
If we’ve agreed to cover a boiler or appliance
but warned you that it might be difficult
to find replacement parts, we’ll do what
we can, within reason, to repair it."

[bhg481]

I would argue with the agent about you HAVING to pay for a replacement if one is necessary. To me the terms state that if a replacement is necessary they will provide it from their own range. If you want a particular design they are happy for you to provide your own and they will fit it for you on the condition that, if the replacement you supply is faulty, they are not responsible.

[Unsureme]

Wouldn't use British Gas if my life depended on it. Dearest people around and more terms and conditions than you could dream up.

[The Builder]

If necessary,try a local Screwfix. Select online for either collect or deliver.

Or online from Plumbworld. I use them a lot.

[OldChestNuts]

To be honest, I just wanted a functional taps that doesn't leak or drips. Just waste of water at the moment. So it will be nice if they could supply it and be able to use it for another few years whilst I save up for a new kitchen refitted.

Thanks again for all the replies.

[woofgang]

My understanding, and I have this insurance, is that its parts AND labour and if they have to replace one tap they will replace a pair of they can't match the original but if its a sink tap that needs replacing and they can't match it, they will replace both sink taps but not replace any matching taps that still function on other items eg on a bath. I have been really happy with the cover they provide, I agree maybe not the cheapest option.

[OldChestNuts]

Woodgang, you are right. Dyno plumber turned up this morning on behalf of British Gas. He initially tried to repair the tap, but it could not be dismantled. So he offered to replace with a standard tap. Which I am very happy. It Should last me until I replace the kitchen units.
So many thanks for the reply here.