Boiler and machinery insurance
Cover for sudden and unforeseen breakdown of machinery in operation, and for the explosion or collapse of boilers and pressure plant, including damage to the property around them.
What it covers
Cover varies between insurers and plans. The policy wording is what decides whether a claim is payable, so read it before you buy.
- Sudden and unforeseen physical damage to insured machinery from breakdown
- Explosion or collapse of boilers, economisers and other pressure vessels
- Damage caused to surrounding property by that explosion or collapse
- Electrical and mechanical failure, short circuit, and failure of lubrication or safety devices, as the wording provides
- The cost of repairing or replacing the damaged parts, and the labour to fit them
- Loss of profit following machinery breakdown, where that section is added
Key features
- Covers machinery while working, at rest, and while dismantled for cleaning or overhaul
- Separate sections for machinery breakdown, boiler explosion and, where taken, loss of profit
- Sum insured on the current new replacement value of each machine, itemised
- Deductibles per machine and per event: [DEDUCTIBLE]
- Insurer inspection of boilers and pressure plant, alongside the statutory inspection required for them
- Electronic equipment is usually insured under its own electronic equipment policy
How to buy it
Four steps, with an advisor you can reach at any of them.
Tell us about the risk
Send us a list of machines with their replacement values, ages and duty, and your maintenance and claims record.
Underwriting details
An advisor collects the information insurers need to price the risk, and flags anything missing.
Compare quotes
We ask our partner insurers to quote, and put the cover, conditions and premium side by side.
Proposal & policy
Pick a quote, complete the proposal form and KYC, and the insurer issues the policy.
Boiler and machinery insurance: FAQs
Is breakdown not covered by my fire policy?
No, and that is the point. A fire policy covers fire and named perils, and specifically excludes mechanical or electrical breakdown. This policy covers that gap.
Does it cover wear and tear?
No. Gradual deterioration, corrosion, erosion and routine maintenance are excluded. Sudden and unforeseen damage is what is covered.
Is the statutory boiler inspection not enough?
Statutory inspection is a safety requirement and is separate. It does not pay for damage, which is what insurance is for, and insurers will ask to see current inspection certificates.
Can I cover the production I lose?
Yes, by adding machinery loss of profit cover, rated on your gross profit and the indemnity period you choose.