Smoke & Heat Detection Domestic Install - Insurance Advice Please

[freedomrun]

I'm after some advice on what Insurance cover other Electricians use when it comes to the install of Smoke and Heat detection equipment in a domestic property. I've been asked to install smokes in a 2 up 2 down semi as part of a re-wire. The owner is looking at renting the place out when it's done. I've not been asked to install Smokes before, I got my PLI for my PART P scheme provider & I have checked with my insurance company - they say they want extra cash to cover me for installing Fire detection equipment anyway - and considerably more cash to insure me, should the equipment fail to operate when required. Looks like i will have to pay the addition to install the smokes, but as for the other cover - I'm thinking of putting something in the contract that states that i am not liable for the failure of the sensors to operate after the manufacturers waranty has ended.

 

[philbas]

While I think it's worth putting that in the contract it only protects you if it comes down to a fault with the alarm, not sure it would protect you if it was wired up wrong.

 

[freedomrun]

Well .... lets assume in this case that all the wiring will be correctly installed as per BS7671:2008 (amd:1 2011)

 

[sellers]

and that your fire alarms are installed to bs5839 part 6

 

[wozz]

Sounds like you have read the small print where most dont.  Shop around for a policy which suits your work.

You mention your policy and a part p provider, did you buy it through them? if so which scheme?

 

[freedomrun]

I got my insurance through Zurich, that use Trade Insurance Direct as the broker. I know that Insurance companies will try ANYTHING to get out of paying on a cliam. I think most Electricians must install Smokes & not realise that the basic PLI is'nt enough.

I've read bs5839 part 6 - & I would be installing to this Bristish Standard also.

Putting a clause in the contract is fair, after all - it's up to the customer to ensure that regular service is carried out by a competent person - this would flag any problems with the sensors, should they become faulty.