Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is a specialized type of insurance policy designed to cover the costs of repair or replacement of your property due to operational or structural failure. The failures covered can be a result of defects in materials, poor workmanship, or normal wear and tear. It generally applies to a wide array of mechanical and electronic devices and structures.
Coverage
MBI typically includes but is not limited to:
- Motor Vehicles: Cars, motorcycles, and certain kinds of mobile equipment.
- Boats: Features various types of watercraft.
- Home Appliances: Major devices like refrigerators, dryers, ovens.
- Electronics: Items such as computers, televisions, and home theater systems.
- Structural: Certain components of buildings and similar structures.
Benefits
Investing in Mechanical Breakdown Insurance can:
Reduce Unexpected Costs: Help cover unexpected repair bills, which can be significant, particularly for essential or high-value items.
Extend Lifespan of Goods: By facilitating timely repairs, it often tends to extend the operational lifespan of the covered items.
Examples of Mechanical Breakdown
Examples of issues covered might include an engine failure in a car due to a defect, or a malfunctioning washer due to everyday wear.
Legal Basis and Regulations
Regulations around MBI can vary significantly between territories but usually must comply with state insurance laws. In most cases, consumer protections laws, such as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the U.S., which provides for full disclosure in warranties, also pertain to these policies.
For precise terms, conditions, and coverages, reference must be made to specific provider agreements and local state laws governing vehicle, appliance, and mechanics’ insurance.
For more resources: