Laboratory Equipment Breakdown Insurance UK
Laboratory equipment breakdown insurance covers the sudden failure of scientific instruments and lab plant, along with the samples and income that can be lost as a result. Mass spectrometers, sequencers, microscopes, freezers and containment systems are expensive to repair and can take weeks to replace. A standard property policy covers fire, flood and theft but not mechanical or electrical breakdown, so labs need separate engineering cover. The most valuable add-ons are deterioration of stock, for samples lost when a freezer fails, and business interruption or increased cost of working, to pay for outsourcing tests while equipment is out of action. Insurers want an equipment list with values, details of service contracts and how freezers and incubators are monitored.
Key facts at a glance
- Property policies exclude breakdown. Mechanical and electrical failure needs engineering cover.
- Freezers carry the biggest risk. A freezer failure can destroy years of samples.
- Service contracts help. Insurers look for maintenance agreements on key instruments.
- Outsourcing costs add up. Increased cost of working pays for tests done elsewhere.
- Leased equipment needs checking. Lease terms often say who must insure.
What does lab equipment breakdown insurance cover?
Engineering cover pays for sudden mechanical or electrical failure that a property policy won't.
| Equipment | Typical risk | Related cover |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra-low freezers | Compressor failure and temperature loss | Deterioration of stock |
| Mass spectrometers and chromatography | Electrical and vacuum failures | Increased cost of working |
| Sequencers and imaging systems | Electronic faults and power surges | Business interruption |
| Incubators and bioreactors | Control failure mid-run | Loss of cultures and runs |
| Containment and fume cupboards | Fan and extraction failure | Inspection and breakdown |
| Autoclaves and pressure plant | Pressure system failure | Statutory inspection |
This is one part of our wider laboratory insurance cover.
Why is freezer failure such a common claim?
Ultra-low freezers run around the clock at very low temperatures. Compressors fail, power cuts happen and doors get left open. If no one notices, everything inside can be lost overnight.
Insurers will usually cover samples lost this way through deterioration of stock, but only if temperature alarms are fitted, working and monitored. Many policies require alarms that alert someone out of hours and a plan for moving samples to back-up storage quickly.
Keep records of alarm testing and call-out responses. An untested or ignored alarm is one of the most common reasons freezer claims are reduced.
Do pressure systems need inspection?
Yes. Autoclaves, compressed gas systems and some other lab plant fall under pressure systems regulations and need written schemes of examination.
Engineering insurers often provide inspection services alongside breakdown cover, which can be more convenient than arranging them separately. See our guide to engineering inspection insurance for more.
What do insurers need to quote?
- An equipment list with make, model, age and replacement value
- Service and maintenance contracts
- Whether equipment is owned, leased or on loan
- Freezer and incubator monitoring arrangements
- Back-up power and spare storage capacity
- Value of samples and how they would be recreated
- Cost of outsourcing work if equipment fails
Frequently asked questions
No. Mechanical and electrical breakdown needs engineering cover.
Yes, with deterioration of stock cover and working alarms.
It can be. Check who the lease says must insure it.
It isn't always required, but it helps with cover and terms.
It can be added to pay for outsourced tests while equipment is repaired.
Usually, as part of electrical breakdown cover.
No. Breakdown cover is for sudden failure, not gradual deterioration.
Yes, and they may also need statutory inspection.
Yes, though older items may have restrictions.
Usually within a week once we have the equipment list.
Related guides from Miller & Partner
Miller & Partner Limited (FRN 1029698) is an Appointed Representative of Gauntlet Risk Management Ltd (FRN 308081), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Miller & Partner Limited is registered in England and Wales (company number 16206282) and trades from Vivian House, Roman Bridge Close, Mumbles, Swansea SA3 5BG. This article is general information, not a personal recommendation or an offer of cover. Cover is subject to insurer acceptance and the full terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued.
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