HVACR BUSINESS – When something fails on a job, reviewing contract language is rarely the first priority – fixing the problem is. But when things go wrong, whether it’s a refrigerant leak or a system failure, the contract is what decides who owns the problem.
Most contracts look similar, which makes them easy to skim or rush through. That’s where risk creeps in. Small wording differences can have outsized consequences. Contractors are highly detail-oriented when it comes to diagnosing system issues, but that same discipline does not always carry over to contract review. Too often agreements get signed without a full understanding of the exposure they create.
Consider a familiar scenario. An HVAC system is installed and commissioned without issue. Weeks later, humidity levels spike and damage tenant equipment. The property owner files a claim. Part of the work was subcontracted, and responsibility is no longer clear. What follows is often a slow, costly dispute.
At that point, the contract either holds up, or it doesn’t.
Mike Touhill is vice president at Cookerly Public Relations, where he helps lead traditional, social and digital media programs for B2B and B2C clients in packaging, telecommunications and technology, among other industries. As a communication leader, he develops and executes public relations strategy, provides proactive and reactive counsel to C-level executives and secures earned media coverage for client initiatives and product.
Andrew Agan is a vice president at Cookerly Public Relations, overseeing the agency’s internship program and leading media relations, content strategy and social media initiatives. He provides counsel and executes campaigns for clients across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, hospitality, technology, automotive and many others. Andrew excels at crafting compelling stories and building media relationships, resulting in clients being featured in notable outlets such as CNBC, Associated Press, Business Insider, Fox Business, HBO, Inc. Magazine, Sirius XM, The Wall Street Journal and USA Today, among others.
As design director at Cookerly, Tim serves as the creative lead in the development of branding campaigns, print collateral and digital media for clients across a broad range of industries, including consumer, professional services, healthcare and technology.
With more than two decades of experience in public relations and journalism, Mike is a strategic communications leader who focuses on media relations and reputation management.
As vice president of Cookerly, Sheryl Sellaway uses her extensive corporate communications background to lead consumer PR efforts, deliver strategy for marketing programs and share expertise about community initiatives.
