Motor Ombudsman marks Code of Practice milestone

The Motor Ombudsman is marking 15 years since its Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Warranty Products was unveiled.

The Code, which has received more than 22,500 contacts from customers to date, was launched to drive up standards in the provision of extended vehicle warranty products. A total of 18 organisations have so far signed up to it, which represents around three-quarters of the industry’s major providers.

Code of Practice

The scope of the Code spans both insurance and non-insurance backed extended warranties, and extends to service contracts, roadside assistance and insurance for items such as keys, alloy wheels and tyres. It comprises 60 different guidelines which organisations pledge their commitment to as part of their accreditation. These include clear, concise, jargon-free and accurate communications, and in-house complaints processes.

Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman, said:

“We are delighted to be celebrating this notable milestone for our Vehicle Warranty Products Code across our organisation, and with businesses. The Code of Practice has served as an important cornerstone of the extended vehicle warranty market since it was first unveiled 15 years ago, and has been paramount in driving standards even higher in the provision and management of these popular policies for today’s motorists.”