Have you ever looked up whether your homeowners insurance policy covers your HVAC unit when it’s damaged? If you haven’t, we can tell you right now that the answer is likely to be “sometimes.”
In most cases, the damage to your HVAC that your insurance covers will be due to a “covered peril” or a disaster. That means if a tree falls on the outdoor condenser during a storm, it’s covered. If your house burns up from an electrical fire, your HVAC is covered. If your house is wrecked by a tornado, you can recover. You can even expect to be compensated in the event your HVAC is stolen (this usually occurs when thieves take the outdoor condenser to strip it of copper).
Unfortunately, there are also some instances where you can’t be compensated for your HVAC. Read on to see what they are.
Flooding
Flooding is a different kind of disaster. If your HVAC is destroyed by flood waters, then you will need to have a separate flood insurance policy to collect for it.
However, if the damage comes from inside the home and is sudden and accidental, a standard homeowners insurance policy will generally protect you. For instance, if pipes freeze inside the house, the pipes burst, and your home floods, your policy will probably cover the damage.
But if the water damage is caused by outside rising water or a repair you neglected to make, you will not be covered.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are not really an issue in our region, but they could be. If you’re concerned, you will need a separate earthquake policy.
Hail
Hail damage is probably covered by your homeowners insurance policy.
Wear and Tear
Your homeowners policy will not protect your HVAC from wear and tear. You will always be responsible for replacing parts, maintenance, and replacing the unit when it fails due to age. So when your HVAC gives up the ghost, you can anticipate having to find a way to finance a new model.
For more on homeowners insurance, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area