What is the difference between Platinum Seal and other similar schemes?
The biggest difference is that Platinum seal is the only 'insured' 10 year manufacturers warranty within the park home Industry, and therefore comes with all the benefits you expect from a properly insured, regulated and audited scheme. However in addition, Platinum Seal insured protection is available to more park home owners, on more parks than any other scheme.
Who is the insurer?
Platinum Seal is underwritten by Assist Insurance Company Limited.
Registered in Guernsey number 43269.
Registered Office: 26 Cornet Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1LF
The Company is registered under the Insurance Business (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law 2002. Mr S Leech has a beneficial interest in this company.
It is not regulated under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
I understand that other similar schemes only offer protection to homes built to BS3632 standards, is that the same with Platinum Seal?
No. Protection is also available for homes built to EN1647, although additional terms and conditions may apply.
I understand that other similar schemes only offer protection to homes being sited on NCC Approved Parks, is that the same with Platinum Seal?
No. Platinum Seal is available for homes being sited on a number of sites, as well as in some cases on your own land too, although additional terms and conditions may apply.
Does Platinum Seal offer protection for homes which will be used for commercial use, such as Leisure Fleet Hire?
Not at this stage, although this is something the insurer may consider if demand requires.
Don't all homes manufactured come with a 10 year warranty?
Unfortunately not. Over the past 5 years there has been a reducing percentage of purchasers of park homes being provided this type of protection and peace of mind. At its height 5 years ago the industry's scheme had nearly 70% of park homes produced joining the scheme. This percentage has reduced year on year since then with less than half of the homes being manufactured now being able to join. When a you (the customer) invests the amount that is required to purchase your dream home, you should be provided the level of protection that expenditure justifies. If the home is not being sited on an 'approved' park, currently, the level of protection available would typically be the manufacturer's guarantee, which could be as little as two years, and will only remain valid if the manufacturer remains in business for the duration of the guarantee. That level of consumer protection is even less than for purchasing a new car, and in some cases even a used car.
What does Platinum Seal cover?
Platinum Seal covers the structure of your home, it is not a Buildings and Contents policy. We suggest you read the policy outline and policy wording to understand all that Platinum Seal offers. See the outline cover.
Do I have to pay anything for the warranty?
There will be cases when the warranty comes free of charge from your manufacturer, however there will be occasions when you need to pay a registration fee for your home to be protected, this would typically be if your home is not being sited on a Gold Shield or BH&HPA park or you are purchasing a log cabin. Contact the Park Home Assist Customer Service Team, and they will tell you more.
If I purchase a park home from a manufacturer who does not offer Platinum Seal Protection, can I take out Platinum Seal cover separately?
You will be able to do so shortly, with options for 3 or 5 years cover.
I am purchasing my park home which will be sited abroad, will Platinum Seal Protection still be available?
Yes, although only for 5 years, not 10 years, and it will be subject to some additional terms and conditions.