Does my liability policy cover refrigerant releases?

Often not by default. Many policies exclude pollution, so HVAC contractors usually need a pollution or refrigerant-release endorsement. Ask your broker to confirm it in writing.

Do heat pump installs change my insurance?

They can. Heat pumps involve electrical, refrigerant, and sometimes structural work. Tell your broker what share of your revenue comes from heat pumps so the policy matches what you actually do.

Is gas work covered automatically?

No. Insurers need to know you're licensed for gas work with Technical Safety BC, and they rate it separately. Leaving it off your application can put a claim at risk.

British Columbia trade insurance

Insurance for HVAC Technicians in British Columbia

Liability, refrigerant, and tool coverage for BC HVAC, heat pump, and gas contractors. Licensed BC brokers compete for your account.

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HVAC Technicians in British Columbia illustration

Commercial Liability & Risk Guide for HVAC Technicians in British Columbia

Heat pump installations have grown fast in British Columbia, and HVAC contractors have grown with them. The work combines electrical, refrigerant, and often gas fitting, and each one is its own liability exposure. Gas work needs a Technical Safety BC contractor licence, and refrigerant handling falls under BC's own halocarbon rules. QuoteMatch sends your application to licensed BC brokers who write mechanical trades, so your heat pump, gas, and refrigeration work are rated correctly.

Risks specific to British Columbia

Working in British Columbia brings its own climate, market, and regulatory risks:

Refrigerant releases during heat pump and AC installs and service.
Carbon monoxide and gas leak exposures on furnace and boiler work.
Condensate leaks causing water damage in finished spaces.
Brazing fire risk in attics and mechanical rooms.

Rules and requirements to know

Insurers and clients in British Columbia will expect you to meet these:

Technical Safety BC gas contractor licensing for gas-fired equipment.
BC Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation for refrigerant handling.
WorkSafeBC registration and clearance letters for subcontractors.

Example claim

How a claim could happen

“A Victoria HVAC contractor installs a ducted heat pump. A condensate line isn't secured and leaks into a finished basement for weeks.”

How coverage respondsThe contractor's liability coverage handles the drywall, flooring, and mould remediation after the homeowner's insurer claims against them.

Official resources

HVAC Technicians & Contractors in other provinces

Ontario

Common questions: HVAC Technicians in British Columbia

Does my liability policy cover refrigerant releases?: Often not by default. Many policies exclude pollution, so HVAC contractors usually need a pollution or refrigerant-release endorsement. Ask your broker to confirm it in writing.
Do heat pump installs change my insurance?: They can. Heat pumps involve electrical, refrigerant, and sometimes structural work. Tell your broker what share of your revenue comes from heat pumps so the policy matches what you actually do.
Is gas work covered automatically?: No. Insurers need to know you're licensed for gas work with Technical Safety BC, and they rate it separately. Leaving it off your application can put a claim at risk.