The HVAC Insurance Landscape
HVAC contractors face a unique blend of exposures. You're working with mechanical systems, refrigerants, electrical components, and gas lines. You're creating ongoing service relationships that extend your liability over time. Your equipment is expensive and often left in vehicles overnight.
Understanding these exposures helps you build the right insurance program.
HVAC-Specific Risks
Refrigerant Handling
Environmental regulations around refrigerant handling are strict. Improper recovery, accidental releases, or contamination create potential liability. Carriers want to see proper EPA certification and documented handling procedures.
Water Damage
Condensate lines that drain incorrectly, improper drainage installation, and ice dam situations from frozen coils cause water damage claims regularly. These aren't exotic scenarios but everyday possibilities for working HVAC contractors.
A client last summer had a condensate line they installed separate from the wall and dump behind drywall. The homeowner didn't notice for three weeks. By then, mold remediation was required. Total claim was over $30,000.
Fire Hazards
Gas line connections to furnaces, electrical component work, and ductwork running near heat sources all create fire exposure. Proper installation practices and documentation reduce both the likelihood of incidents and your exposure when they occur.
Indoor Air Quality
Mold growth from moisture problems, carbon monoxide from combustion issues, and general sick building syndrome claims all fall on HVAC contractors when heating and cooling systems are implicated.
Essential Coverage Components
General Liability
Property damage from installations is the primary concern. Strong completed operations coverage matters because HVAC systems run for years after installation. Any problems during that period trace back to your work.
Workers' Compensation
Classification varies depending on specific work performed. Electrical exposure, refrigerant handling risks, and the physical demands of the trade all factor into rates.
Commercial Auto
Service vans are central to HVAC operations. Coverage needs to include the vehicle, refrigerant recovery equipment you transport, and tools and diagnostic equipment. High-value equipment sitting in vans overnight creates theft exposure.
Inland Marine
Recovery units, gauges, diagnostic equipment, and inventory you carry have significant value. Commercial auto provides limited coverage. Inland marine protects your mobile inventory properly.
Service Agreement Considerations
Many HVAC contractors provide ongoing maintenance agreements. These create extended relationships that extend your liability exposure.
Every service call creates a touchpoint where something can go wrong. Document each visit carefully. Note equipment conditions, any unusual observations, and recommendations you make. When a problem develops later, your records establish what you knew and when you knew it.
Pollution Liability
Standard GL policies often exclude pollution. For HVAC contractors handling refrigerants, this exclusion creates a potential gap.
Consider a contractor's pollution liability endorsement or separate policy. This covers refrigerant release events, environmental cleanup costs, and third-party pollution claims. The premium is modest compared to the exposure.
Commercial vs. Residential Focus
Residential HVAC
Higher volume of service calls means more customer interactions and more opportunities for small claims. Homeowner expectations can be unrealistic. Documentation and communication matter.
Commercial HVAC
Larger systems mean bigger potential claims. Contract requirements are more stringent. Business interruption concerns add pressure when systems fail.
Common Questions
Do I need pollution coverage for refrigerant work?
Standard GL often excludes pollution. If you handle refrigerants extensively, a pollution liability endorsement provides important protection.
What about commercial rooftop unit work?
Your GL should cover this work, but disclose it during the underwriting process. Rates may be affected depending on how much rooftop work you perform.
How do I handle insurance for 24/7 emergency service?
Your coverage applies regardless of when work is performed. Ensure adequate limits and consider umbrella coverage for emergency scenarios where pressure to restore service quickly can increase mistake potential.