Homeowners insurance only covers damage done to an air-conditioning unit as a result of a “covered peril” listed in your homeowners policy. Depending on the type, an AC unit is part of the structure of your home or personal property, so you will be able to file a claim for damage from specific causes, per your policy.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover AC Units?
Home insurance covers AC units and heat pumps to the same extent the rest of your home is covered. Damage caused by fires, falling trees, vandalism, lightning strikes and sometimes flooding are all covered in standard homeowners policies. On the other hand, normal wear and tear or accidental damage is not. So if your AC simply breaks after 10 years of use, then you won’t be reimbursed for repair or replacement. This is true across most homeowners insurance companies, including State Farm, Progressive, Allstate, and Farmers.
Fire and Lightning Damage
In the event fire destroys your air conditioner, your homeowners insurance policy will cover the repairs or replacement. Typically, if lightning strikes your AC unit—damaging its electrical components—your home insurance policy will pay to replace it.
Falling Trees and Vandalism
Should your air-conditioning unit be shattered by a falling tree or branch, you are protected because policies typically cover damage caused by trees. If your AC unit or heat pump is vandalized, you are also protected since home insurance typically covers destruction from vandalism. You should also file a police report to document the crime and the damage.
If you are ever in doubt about the specifics of your coverage, then call your agent or insurance company for details, as policies may differ.
When Isn’t Your AC Covered by a Homeowners Insurance Policy?
Homeowners insurance policies don’t cover AC malfunctions caused by lack of maintenance, general wear and tear, or accidents. An air conditioner that fails after 10 years of use or is dented by an errant baseball during a backyard game of catch won’t be covered by your home insurance. You’ll be solely responsible for repairing or replacing the unit.
Be on the lookout for water damage, too. While air-conditioning units generally aren’t very susceptible to water damage themselves, they produce water as part of their normal operation. If that water leaks into your home and causes flooding, you won’t be covered because it would be considered a maintenance issue. Continually check your AC unit to make sure it’s draining properly.
Cover the Cost of Repair With a Home Warranty
To help defray repair costs of your air conditioner and other appliances, consider getting a home warranty. Home warranties, also called home repair insurance, cover the cost to repair your home’s systems and appliances, including your air conditioner, for a set fee. Just be sure you understand the policy’s terms before you sign up.