3 HVAC Claims Triggered by Reported Raccoon Damage

Raccoons have earned a bad reputation for rummaging through trash and stealing food meant for neighborhood cats. But their antics can become a real nuisance when they venture into attics, crawlspaces, or other unwanted areas.

These masked bandits occasionally take up residence in HVAC ductwork, wreaking havoc as they make themselves at home. But before settling any raccoon-related HVAC claims, adjusters should consider bringing in objective experts to verify the cause of the loss and assess the scope of damage. Read about three assignments with reported raccoon damage we’ve handled at HVAC Investigators (HVACi) to learn how onsite evaluations can help adjusters resolve these claims more accurately.

Up to no good, harmless visitor, or somewhere in between? Let’s investigate.

1. Super-Charged Contractor Quote

An insured reported that their split system was not functioning properly and that raccoon damage to the equipment’s electrical wiring was to blame. With a quote of $22,000 from the insured’s contractor, the adjuster handling the claim wanted to get objective verification of the cause of loss and scope of damage.

HVACi received the assignment and revealed through an onsite assessment that while the policyholder’s ductwork was severely torn and damage was consistent with raccoons, the system itself was in good condition and the wiring was not damaged. Our team’s recommendation was to replace the ductwork to repair the system and restore it to pre-loss condition. HVACi reports also include Like Kind and Quality replacement costs in case adjusters need to reference this information. Even if a full replacement had been needed for this system, HVACi’s market value pricing for parts and labor was $14,713 – much less than the insured’s contractor estimate.

Recommended Settlement: $4,108

This ductwork shows signs of severe raccoon damage.

2. Falsely Accused

An attic can double as a cozy loft for a raccoon or two. In this claim, a policyholder reported that her attic had been taken over by raccoons, with evidence in the form of excrement dotting her insulation. She stated that her HVAC system was collateral damage in this invasion, claiming her package unit for $12,046.

The adjuster handling the claim requested an onsite assessment from us at HVACi. The onsite assessment indicated the unit was functioning as designed. The ductwork was also unaffected and showed no signs of damage, while the affected insulation had already been replaced. Our team determined that the HVAC system was non-damaged at the time of the study.

Recommended Settlement: $0

3. Reasonable Doubt

In the final claim from this raccoon round-up, an insured reported raccoon damage to their home. The adjuster wanted objective confirmation that the raccoons were also responsible for the HVAC system not operating as designed, and insight into whether a repair or replacement was necessary.

Our onsite investigation determined the wire connecting the thermostat to the external condensing unit had sustained damage from an unknown foreign object, and the thermostat was not functioning properly. No other split system components displayed visible or measured evidence of failure, and there was no visible evidence that animals had impacted any of the indoor equipment, including the ductwork. Ultimately, HVACi recommended the split system be repaired by replacing the thermostat wire, should coverage be afforded.

Recommended Settlement: $275

Raccoons can be stealthy creatures of opportunity, taking up residence where they may not be welcome.

Animal Damage to HVAC Systems

While not all of these claims had verified animal impacts, creatures have been known to tear apart HVAC ductwork or chew through wiring from time to time. Squirrels and rats, too, can cause HVAC damage by nibbling on power lines or wiring within a home’s attic or crawlspace. Birds may find attic HVAC systems or outdoor package units attractive places to nest, potentially blocking airflow in the process. It’s not pleasant to contemplate, but animal waste or even deceased animals can also lead to HVAC losses of varying severity.

Assessing Raccoon Damage in HVAC Claims

Settling claims for reported raccoon (or other animal) damage without verifying the cause and extent of the damage can lead to potential claims leakage. Onsite assessments by HVAC experts who remain objective can help prevent this.

HVACi is committed to equipping you with actionable assessment reports that include accurate, objective cause of loss and scope of damage determinations, repair and replacement recommendations, and settlement recommendations based on market value. Whether your HVAC claims include reported raccoon damage or losses from any other peril, you can rely on HVACi for just the facts. Submit an assignment for your next HVAC-related claim.

Alpine Intel’s content is meant to inform and educate readers using general terms and descriptions. They do not replace expert evaluations that determine facts and details related to each unique claim.