Pollution Exclusion and Clean Up Charges

July 2, 2014

Our insured was hired by a restaurant to clean the hoods, grates, etc. Grease from prepared food is a component of the overall clean up. The oven racks are quite large so the insured removes them and cleans them outside in the parking lot. After completing the job and leaving the scene, someone called 911 and reported a grease spill in the parking lot. The fire department responded, utilizing hazmat clean up services. The insured has submitted the fire department's invoice for the clean up. Coverage is provided under the CG 00 01 12 07 policy. Would the pollution exclusion apply in this instance, thus preventing coverage?