Bathrooms aren’t covered by a Competent Person Scheme the way glazing is, so no rule says you must provide Insurance Backed Guarantees. That’s the short version. The longer version is about why plenty of fitters provide them anyway. And when it’s effectively expected.
Is an Insurance Backed Guarantee compulsory for bathroom installers?
Not by law. There’s no equivalent of the FENSA rule that makes an Insurance Backed Guarantee mandatory on every domestic job. This means it’s your choice, not a legal box to tick.
The exception is if you’re registered with a scheme that requires financial protection. TrustMark-registered businesses, for example, must provide a minimum two-year financial protection on work in and around the home, and an Insurance Backed Guarantee is the usual way this is done.
Why bathroom fitters choose to offer one
A homeowner spending thousands on a new bathroom is trusting you not to disappear halfway through the installation, and to stand behind the work afterwards. An Insurance Backed Guarantee on your quote says: even if my company ceases trading, you’re still covered*. That reassurance wins work — especially against a bigger firm with a big showroom.
It sits behind your own company written guarantee and comes into effect if your company ceases to trade during the term, so a valid claim still gets put right.
| Without an Insurance Backed Guarantee | With one |
|---|---|
| Your guarantee is only there while your company still trading | The homeowner’s cover survives even if you cease trading |
| Nothing extra to show on the quote | A recognised protection promise the customer can see on your quote |
| Harder to stand out against bigger firms | You look as safe a choice as the national names |
* Subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.
Where membership requirements fit in
Bathroom fitters often belong to a trade body — TrustMark, or other associations. These build trust and, in TrustMark’s case, come with a minimum two-year financial-protection requirement.
They don’t replace an Insurance Backed Guarantee. More often, the Insurance Backed Guarantee is how that protection side of membership is delivered.
What an Insurance Backed Guarantee covers on a bathroom installation
Subject to the terms and conditions of the policy, it typically covers:
| Typically covered | Typically not covered |
|---|---|
| Defective workmanship on your installation | Damage caused by the homeowner or a third party |
| Faulty materials you supplied and fitted | Normal wear and tear |
| Valid claims if you cease trading during the term | Manufacturer faults covered by their own warranty |
| Deposit protection, where the policy includes it | Claims while you’re still trading |
Want to win more bathroom jobs by showing homeowners they’re protected?
HomePro provides Insurance Backed Guarantees for bathroom fitters — plus the recognised badge and reviews that help you compete with the big names. Call 0800 131 0500 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) or join here.
Frequently asked questions
Is an Insurance Backed Guarantee a legal requirement for bathroom installers?
No. There’s no law making it compulsory for bathrooms. It becomes effectively required only if you’re in a scheme like TrustMark that mandates financial protection.
Should I offer one even though I don’t have to?
Many fitters who want to reassure their customers, and win more work do. It reassures homeowners, helps you compete with larger firms, and backs your written guarantee if your company ever stops trading.
Who pays for it — me or the homeowner?
You’re providing it for your customers, which means you pay the premium and build it into your price. The homeowner is the policyholder but doesn’t pay for it separately. As you’re not an insurance intermediary, you also should not itemise an it on your quotes, as you’re not authorised to sell insurance.
How long does the cover last?
It typically mirrors your own written guarantee, up to the policy’s maximum term. TrustMark’s minimum requirement for financial protection is two years.
Join UK installers who provide FCA-regulated Insurance Backed Guarantees with every job through HomePro. Call 0800 131 0500 or join the HomePro network today.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only. It is not financial, legal or insurance advice. While we take care to make sure the information is accurate, scheme rules, legal requirements and third-party details can change without notice — always check the latest position with the relevant scheme or official body before acting on anything here. HomePro accepts no liability for any loss arising from errors or omissions in, or reliance on, the information in this article. Insurance Backed Guarantees are subject to the terms, conditions and limitations of the individual policy.
