The information required for Machinery Breakdown Insurance depends on the size and complexity of the equipment exposure.
What equipment information may be required? #
This can include:
- Type of machinery.
- Make and model.
- Age.
- Replacement value.
- Location.
- Power or capacity.
- Number of units.
- Whether equipment is owned or leased.
For larger risks, an equipment schedule may be required.
What maintenance information can insurers request? #
Insurers may ask about:
- Preventative maintenance.
- Service contracts.
- Inspection frequency.
- Manufacturer servicing.
- Previous breakdowns.
- Major repairs or upgrades.
What about refrigeration equipment? #
Businesses with refrigeration may also need to provide:
- Refrigeration values.
- Type of system.
- Age.
- Maximum stock exposed.
- Temperature monitoring.
- Alarm systems.
Deterioration of Stock cover may need to be separately selected.
What Business Interruption information might be needed? #
For critical machinery, consider:
- Replacement lead time.
- Repair time.
- Alternative machinery.
- Production capacity.
- Financial impact of downtime.
- Availability of temporary equipment.
Why are accurate values important? #
Replacement costs can differ significantly from accounting values.
Consider the actual cost to:
- Purchase replacement machinery.
- Transport it.
- Install it.
- Commission it.
Specialist or imported machinery may also have substantial freight and installation costs.

