Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Consumers Association of Ireland recently highlighted that many of the gas heating systems fitted in thousands of homes throughout the country had been fitted by unregistered contractors. I ask the Leader to clarify with the Minister or the insurance industry if difficulties or fire as a result of faulty installation will be covered by household insurance. While one can appreciate that cash strapped householders may have availed of the services of unregistered contractors because they could do the job cheaper, they may find themselves in a difficult situation in the event of claim. This matter requires clarification by the Minister and the insurance industry. It is an issue of grave concern to those people who availed of the service of unregistered contractors. I note that while some 20,000 gas appliances were fitted in 2011, only 17,000 were fitted by registered contractors. There is a need for clarification on this issue in terms of peace of mind for householders.