While residential HVAC contractors enjoy “essential service” status during the COVID-19 pandemic, commercial HVAC contractors grapple with mandated construction shutdowns in many parts of the country. The extent of the shutdowns vary by state, with some suspending most work in all locations and others leaving the decision up to local municipalities. Those places that allow construction to continue are developing new rules as they go along.
“It really very much depends on what day you’re asking and what state or city you’re in,” said Ken Simonson, chief economist for Associated General Contractors of America.