If you’re in the heating and cooling business, you’re in good company. This field is vast and the demand is high because people and companies in all sectors require HVAC service.
To make sure your business is secured and able to provide for customers, you’ll need to maintain an insurance policy that covers your work. How can you find the right policy for you?
Use these strategies to find the right HVAC insurance plan.
Consider the Merit and Need of Some Quality HVAC Insurance
So first and foremost, do you need HVAC insurance? The answer to this question is a resounding, yes.
Every business operates with a certain measure of risk. Since you’re providing work that alters people’s buildings and quality of life, you’ll need insurance that covers you against the worst that can happen.
You are also legally required to maintain a liability insurance policy so that you can operate in your state. These coverages protect you and your customer so that you can do your best work without setbacks.
Break Down the Different Kinds of Insurance You Can Buy
There are several facets of HVAC insurance you need to know about when you’re shopping for a plan. This way, you’ll know what you’re covered for and can keep your business running smoothly.
Here’s what you need to know about shopping for insurance to keep your small HVAC business afloat.
1. General Liability Insurance
Your general liability insurance policy will cover you against the worst that happens in your business.
There are several liabilities you run into on the course of any HVAC repair or maintenance call. This policy will be the cornerstone of your commercial insurance policy so that you’re covered for mistakes that happen during a call.
If you happen to break something on the person’s property, the last thing you’d want is to come out of pocket to fix it. The general liability insurance policy is a catch-all that will cover you for just about anything that you’re liable for during the appointment.
2. Insurance on the Professional Vehicle That You Drive
Matching your business vehicle with the right insurance plan will help you to the fullest.
Most heating and cooling contractors have a vehicle that they use to get them from Point A to Point B. This could be a standard automobile or a work van with the company’s branding on the side.
Regardless, you’ll need to have an ironclad insurance policy that protects the automobile. This means covering it with collision coverage, comprehensive and liability insurance.
If you happen to get into a wreck or have your vehicle vandalized, damaged by storms, or any other matters, these policies will help you out.
3. Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Your Employees
You’ll need to be able to address workers’ compensation claims that come about during your workflow.
Contractors that get hurt on the job will have medical bills to take care of and missed wages to make up for. They’ll file a workers’ compensation claim for a payout. Every company that hires employees is required to maintain workers’ compensation insurance so that they’re covered in these situations.
You will be glad that you held one of these policies because a lawsuit from an on the job injury could potentially break the bank. When your policy is active you won’t have to come out of your company’s operating budget.
4. Insurance for Your Tools and Equipment
It’s important that you also insure whatever tools and equipment you use on a daily basis.
HVAC professionals use all sorts of tools on the job, such as vacuum pumps, high-tech drills, reciprocating saws, air compressors, and generators. Make a list of the tools that you use on a regular basis and their market value.
This way, you’ll be able to replace your tools whenever they break down or need repairs.
5. An Overall Business Policy
You’ll also need to secure a business policy that lets you cover parameters that aren’t laid out under any other terms. Many of these policies don’t have anything to do with specific HVAC work but will keep your business afloat.
For instance, you might need a policy to protect you in the event your business isn’t able to operate due to weather, economic downturns, and other circumstances. Think of yourself as a business owner first and you’ll always be able to secure the policy that’ll protect your enterprise.
Find a Reputable Company and Shop for an Affordable Price
Finally, you’ll need to do business with a quality insurance provider that can offer you the right policy. Make sure that they’re certified with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and ask for references.
Once you have a shortlist of qualified companies, get quotes on the package that’ll protect your business. Compare the quotes you receive from different companies and decide which is the most affordable.
Match Up With the HVAC Insurance You Need
When you’re looking for an HVAC insurance policy, let the tips above help you out. Your company requires insurance at all times, and you need to create a policy that covers you in the event that the worst happens.
We’d be happy to assist you when you’re looking for the best policy. Farmer Brown Insurance Agency has been in operation for years and has the reputation to back it. We offer insurance policies to contractors in all different lines of work.
Take some time to reach out to us on our website, or give us a call at (888) 973-0016.