ICE raids can affect any business. And they can be one of the most disruptive events for an HVAC employer to face — but how you respond in the first few minutes can make all the difference. In this HVAC minute, we discuss an article written by construction lawyer Trent Cotney that details what exactly HVACR contractors should expect, and how they should react.

First, know this: ICE agents do not have unlimited access to your workplace. They can enter public areas, but private spaces like offices, warehouses, and service bays generally require a judicial warrant signed by a judge — not just an administrative one. Train front-line staff to stay calm, avoid giving consent, and immediately contact ownership or legal counsel. Second, don’t interfere — but don’t overshare either. Review documents carefully and only provide what’s legally required. Employers should never instruct employees to hide, run, or destroy records. Employees have the right to remain silent and request an attorney, and supervisors can remind them of those rights without coaching. Third, keep your paperwork organized. I-9s should be centralized and separate from personnel files. Finally, preparation is everything. Have a written response plan, train supervisors, vet labor partners carefully, and run periodic compliance audits.

Read the full article.