Does Homeowners Insurance Cover AC Units?

AC systems are expensive to replace, and many common repairs can quickly impact your home maintenance budget. In California, having an AC unit break can also be extremely uncomfortable and pose a health risk during the summer if you’re a vulnerable member of the population. Although insurance companies offer different AC unit coverages, most typically include it as a portion of your home policy in the event damage occurs due to a covered type of peril. Knowing when your AC might be covered helps you proceed with covering the cost of repairs in the best way possible.

Know the Common Types of Damage Covered by Insurance

Homeowners insurance covers AC and heating systems in a similar way as it covers the rest of your home’s structure and fixtures. Typically, damage that occurs due to natural disasters such as lightning strikes, fires, and falling trees is covered. In some cases, your policy could cover damage caused by flooding. Vandalism might be another reason for your insurance to cover the costs of repair or replacement.

Check Your Policy to See when Repairs Are Your Responsibility

As a general rule, your insurance coverage will usually cover damage that’s unexpected and not due to poor maintenance or normal wear and tear. For example, you wouldn’t be able to expect your homeowners insurance to cover an AC unit that stops working beyond its normal life span, which is typically around 10 to 15 years. Your insurance will also not cover damage that occurs due to a faulty part or clogged air filter. You should also know that most policies cover central AC units differently than window units. A central AC unit is viewed as being part of the home, and window units are often viewed as personal property. This distinction can alter how the unit is covered by your policy.

Perform Regular AC Unit Checks & Maintenance

Keeping your AC unit in top condition helps it withstand minor events that could cause damage. This also helps you know if your unit stopped working because of a natural disaster such as a lightning strike versus a general malfunction. Maintaining your AC also protects other parts of your home from water damage and fire, which is important for making sure any claims aren’t viewed as being your responsibility. Being able to demonstrate your AC was working properly on specific dates by having regular inspections goes a long way toward helping you if you do need to make a claim.

Reach Out to Your Insurance Company to File a Claim

Reading through insurance policies can be challenging, and you might encounter a situation that makes it difficult to know if your AC is covered. Contacting your insurance company is the best way to find out if your unit is covered after a catastrophe. Your insurance company representative will look at your policy and help you determine the next steps to follow for getting your AC repaired or replaced. 

If you own a home or are considering buying one, take the time to understand exactly what your homeowners insurance policy does—and doesn’t—cover. It could save you a lot of time and money. The friendly professionals at Altra Insurance Services will be happy to help you examine your current policy and determine if you have the coverage you need. We can also help you with renters insurance, commercial insurance, and motorcycle and car insurance National City. Call one of our friendly agents today at (800) 719-9972.