Your HVAC system plays an important role in keeping your house comfortable and safe. An unexpected HVAC breakdown can be frustrating, expensive and dangerous. The good news is that there are circumstances in which your homeowners insurance might cover an HVAC unit that needs to be repaired or replaced, as well as additional coverage options that can protect you in case of an HVAC breakdown. In this article, we’ll look at those situations and coverage options and help you understand when your HVAC unit cannot be covered by your homeowners insurance.
When does homeowners insurance cover HVAC repair or replacement?
Homeowners insurance will cover central HVAC repair or replacement if there was damage to the unit as the result of a covered peril, such as a fire, a fallen tree, theft, vandalism or some storm damage. There are different coverage types that kick in depending on the cause of the damage, and the type of HVAC unit you have can matter as well. For example, a central HVAC system will typically be covered by dwelling insurance because it is considered part of your home, while a standalone or window unit will likely be covered by personal property coverage because it’s considered a personal possession.
When does homeowners insurance not cover HVAC repair or replacement?
Your homeowners insurance doesn’t cover HVAC problems that result from normal wear and tear, neglect or a non-covered peril. If there is a problem that comes from common use, like a broken fan, frozen evaporator coils or dead or malfunctioning batteries, it won’t be covered because those issues are considered normal wear and tear. Things like corrosion, dirty condenser coils or debris blocking the heating and cooling system would fall under neglect. A peril not covered by your standard homeowners policy may include events like floods and earthquakes, although your insurance company might offer additional coverage, like flood insurance, for those specific circumstances. It’s important to keep your HVAC system well-maintained to help avoid needing repairs or replacement.
How Equipment Breakdown Coverage Can Protect Your HVAC System
Additional protection for your HVAC system is available to provide peace of mind and protect your budget. You can add equipment breakdown coverage to your homeowners policy, which will help cover repairs or replacement in case of HVAC problems. This coverage typically includes mechanical, electrical or system breakdown of your HVAC unit, as well as breakdown due to improper installation. Unfortunately, like your homeowners policy, equipment breakdown coverage won’t pay for issues caused by wear and tear. It also won’t cover problems resulting from neglect like mold, rust or pest damage.
Let SelectQuote Help You Find the Right Homeowners Insurance to Protect Your HVAC System
SelectQuote can help if you have questions about your existing policy or if you’re interested in finding out about additional protection like equipment breakdown coverage. Our experienced licensed insurance agents can review your current policy or quickly search for a different plan to better fit your needs. We search multiple carriers in just minutes to provide you detailed quote comparisons, making sure your policy fits your needs and budget. We do the shopping and you do the saving, so contact us today to get started.
