Your HVAC unit is an essential part of your home. Regular maintenance helps to improve indoor air quality, lower energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your AC unit.
Read more: Why HVAC Maintenance Is Important?
However, accidents happen, and sometimes your AC unit will require repairs. So, does homeowners insurance cover AC units? There is no one-size-fits-all answer as policies can vary significantly from insurer to insurer. Here are some situations when your homeowners’ insurance policy may cover the cost of AC repairs:
1) Fire and Water Damage
When your air conditioning system is damaged by fire or water, your homeowners’ insurance will likely cover the repairs. However, you will need a policy that includes coverage for these disasters.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance to homeowners and renters if their community participates in the program. If you live in a participating community, you can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or a private insurer.
If a covered disaster damages your air conditioner, your homeowners’ insurance will pay to repair or replace it.
2) Theft and Vandalism
Theft involves someone taking your AC unit without your permission. Vandalism is when someone intentionally damages your AC unit. Homeowners insurance usually covers both of these scenarios, as long as you have proof that the damage was done maliciously and not due to neglect on your part.
If your AC unit is stolen, you must file a police report and provide a copy of the report to your insurance company. You will need to take pictures of the damage and submit them to your insurer for vandalism. You may also need to get estimates for repairs from a licensed HVAC contractor.
3) Damages Caused By Weather Change
Weather conditions can affect how well your AC unit works. If there is a sudden change in the weather, it could put stress on your unit and cause it to break down. Homeowners’ insurance may cover damages caused by weather changes, but you must check your policy to be sure.
For example, if a storm damages your AC unit, your homeowners’ insurance policy may help pay for the repairs. Other climatic conditions like excessive heat or humidity can also damage your unit. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you must check your policy to see what is covered.
What Do HVAC Insurance Policies Not Cover?
1) Poor Maintenance
If you have not been keeping up with regular maintenance on your AC unit, your home insurance policy will not cover the damages. Poorly maintained AC units are more susceptible to breaking down and require repairs more often. Be sure to keep up with your AC unit’s maintenance schedule to avoid paying for repairs out of pocket.
2) Age and Depreciation
Older units will have a more challenging time getting covered because they are more prone to breaking, and their replacement value is lower than newer units.
Additionally, your insurance policy may depreciate the value of certain items like HVAC systems, so it’s essential to know your coverage and how much it will cost to replace your unit.
3) General Wear and Tear
In some instances, an insurance company will not cover the cost of HVAC repairs if the unit breaks down due to general wear and tear. This is because it’s considered a maintenance issue and something that you, as the homeowner, are responsible for.
If you are looking for an HVAC company in Hinsdale, contact Unique Indoor Comfort. Our team of experts can help you with all your HVAC needs.
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