If the pipes burst or the drains are blocked, Bank of Ireland mortgage customers have an answer just a phone call away. The bank claims its new 24-hour home emergency helpline puts customers in contact with an accredited local tradesperson, validated by Bank of Ireland, who can sort out problems fast, efficiently and competently.

Some of the available tradespeople include: plumbers, electricians, gas fitters, glaziers and locksmiths. The bank assures that the relevant person will be in touch within 30 minutes. Customers then explain the problem and organise payment directly to the tradesperson once the job has been completed.

A spokeswoman for the bank says emergency helpline customers will not pay a premium rate to tradespeople and are not charged for use of the helpline.