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GPI, PCA or insurer-backed warranty — what they cover, when they pay out and how to spot a useless one.
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Cheap "lifetime guarantees"
Worthless if contractor disappears. Verify insurance-backed.
IBG excluded from cheap quotes
Some contractors don't include IBG in quote — adds £200–£500 later or after-the-fact.
Policy not transferable on house sale
Read terms — some IBGs transfer to new owner, others don't.
Annual fees
Some IBG providers charge annual maintenance fees. Should be specified upfront.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Contractor guarantee (without insurance)Worthless if contractor fails
£1–£1
GPI insurance-backed guaranteeMost popular
£200–£400
Quality Mark Protected guaranteeGovernment-backed scheme
£180–£350
HomePro insurance-backedComprehensive
£200–£500
IWA (Independent Warranty Association)Industry scheme
£250–£500
20-year IBG typical costFor full damp treatment
£250–£500
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Damp Proofer explained
Damp treatment warranties protect you for 20–30 years — but only if backed by insurance. A non-insurance-backed "lifetime guarantee" is worthless if the contractor goes out of business. Expect to pay £200–£500 extra for insurance-backed guarantee (IBG) on UK damp work.
What Does the Work Involve?
Insurance-backed guarantee (IBG): underwriter (typically GPI - Guarantee Protection Insurance) issues a policy. If the original contractor fails or refuses to honour the guarantee, the insurance pays for remedial work. Common UK providers: GPI, Quality Mark Protected, HomePro, Independent Warranty Association.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contractor guarantee (without insurance) | 0 | 0 | Worthless if contractor fails |
| GPI insurance-backed guarantee | 200 | 400 | Most popular |
| Quality Mark Protected guarantee | 180 | 350 | Government-backed scheme |
| HomePro insurance-backed | 200 | 500 | Comprehensive |
| IWA (Independent Warranty Association) | 250 | 500 | Industry scheme |
| 20-year IBG typical cost | 250 | 500 | For full damp treatment |
| 30-year IBG (premium) | 350 | 650 | Longer protection |
How Long Does It Take?
IBG issued at completion of work — typically 2–4 weeks after work finishes. Policy document arrives by post or PDF.
DIY or Professional?
Insurance is professional only — sold by contractor or directly by underwriter. PCA member contractors typically include in quotes.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
PCA member with insurance-backed guarantee. Verify the IBG provider's reputation. Quality Mark Protected and GPI are well-established UK schemes.
UK Regulations
FCA regulates insurance products. IBG providers must be authorised. PCA Code of Practice requires insurance-backed guarantee for full membership.
Common Problems
- Cheap "lifetime guarantees": Worthless if contractor disappears. Verify insurance-backed.
- IBG excluded from cheap quotes: Some contractors don't include IBG in quote — adds £200–£500 later or after-the-fact.
- Policy not transferable on house sale: Read terms — some IBGs transfer to new owner, others don't.
- Annual fees: Some IBG providers charge annual maintenance fees. Should be specified upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's an insurance-backed guarantee?
Insurance policy that pays for remedial work if the original contractor fails to honour their guarantee (bankruptcy, retirement, refusing to return). Real protection vs paper-only "lifetime guarantee".
How much does an IBG cost?
£200–£500 typical for 20-year damp treatment cover. £350–£650 for 30-year. Often bundled with quote.
Will the IBG transfer if I sell?
Most IBGs transfer to new property owner. Confirm at purchase — read policy small print.
Why pay for insurance — contractor seems reliable?
Damp warranties run 20–30 years. Even reliable contractors can retire, go bust, or change focus. Insurance is the only protection that outlives the contractor.
Do all PCA members offer IBG?
Most do. Some have it as standard; others offer as optional add-on. Confirm at quote stage.
Will the IBG impact resale?
Yes — surveyors and buyers value insurance-backed guarantees. Properly documented IBG strengthens resale. Non-IBG guarantees flagged as concerns.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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