Appliance Insurance-Allianz

[BJS]

Have just received a quote from this company for a TV bought from Argos who's 3 yr cover is coming to an end. I have never heard of this company, normally have used Domestic & General but asked them for a quote and it was quite a bit higher. Anyone know or have used the Allianz and had any problems.

[Buenchico]

Allianz is a well-respected 'major player' in the UK insurance market (with an annual turnover in excess of 1½ billion pounds). It was voted General Insurer of the Year in the 2010 British Insurance Awards. So there's no reason not to trust the company.

However I'm amazed that you seem not to have encountered the advice which is consistently being given out by the Consumers' Association, BBC Radio 4 ("You & Yours", "The Money Programme", etc) and BBC TV ("Watchdog), as well as in the consumer sections of all of the 'serious' press. Such advice repeatedly states that insuring electrical products against breakdown is both largely unnecessary and ridiculously expensive. (Sales staff usually earn much more commission from selling the insurance than they do from selling the actual product). The advice which is constantly, and consistently, given is that customers should NOT take such insurance cover. Instead they should buy from a reputable retailer and rely upon their statutory rights (which last for a minimum of 6 years from the date of purchase).

Chris

[gingejbee]

...and,if you really do want an extended warranty, buy the goods at Richer Sounds - their 5 year warranty is much cheaper than anybody else and if you don't use it (after five years) they give the premium back to you.

[New Judge]

But as Chris says, gingerbee, you don't need it. Even seemingly "free" has its catches. There are usually strict, almost impossible, conditions applicable to claiming the refund.

[gingejbee]

New Judge: While I agree that they are not necessary and your second point is usually true - at Richer Sounds, it couldn't be easier. Within one month of expiry, you return to one of their shops with your unused warranty voucher and they give you the refund in CASH out of the till!

[hc4361]

The Richer Sounds one is not available for tvs.

[vivandorron]

I go along with Chris.

In fact, whilst I take the view that it is better to be over insured than under, I do not insure electrical goods which automatically haye a one year guarantee. If an appliance works for a twelvemonth, it could go on indefinitely.!!

Ron

[BJS]

Thanks for all the answers. I must say over the years having the washing machine and fridge/freezer covered has more than repaid my costs