With temperatures plummeting in some areas of the country, landlords are being advised to make sure their boilers are in good condition ahead of the cold weather. 

New analysis from Direct Line for Business reveals that the number of broken down boiler claims increased by over a third (37%) last winter compared to 2013. Compared to winter 2012 the increase was even more significant, standing at 151%.

The main reasons for boiler breakdown include the heat exchanger cracking or rapturing, valves failing, seals leaking, circuit fault and frozen pipes.

Jane Guaschi, business manager at Direct Line for Business said: “Winter, unsurprisingly, sees a spike in claims for boiler breakdowns, so we hope that landlords have safeguarded their properties against catastrophes over the cold snap. 

“Making sure the boiler is regularly serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer can help avoid any future disruption and can also ensure maximum efficiency of the central heating system. It’s a good idea to schedule the service for the boiler at the same time as the annual mandatory Gas Safety Check (CP12).”