Finding the Right HVAC Contractor – 10 Questions to Ask
Hiring an air conditioning or heating contractor can be intimidating. After all, replacing your central air conditioning system can be one of the most expensive home improvement projects. Below are 10 common and necessary questions to ask your potential air conditioning contractor:
Are you licensed? Make sure your HVAC contractor is properly licensed. In the State of Florida, all contractors MUST be either certified by the State (if they have a statewide license), or registered with the State (if they have a countywide license). Anyone can say they are licensed. Make the contractor prove it by either showing you the license or giving you a copy of it. If you have any questions or doubts, call the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, or the County Construction Industry licensing board.
Do you carry general liability insurance? Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or his employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that occurs.
Do you carry workers’ compensation insurance? Make sure your contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance. It protects you from liability if a worker is injured while on your property. Be aware that if the contractor doesn’t carry workers’ compensation coverage, you may be liable for any injuries suffered by the contractor or any of his employees on your property.
Are you a member of a professional organization? Organizations include ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) and NATE (North American Technician Excellence). In most cases, professional organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding out unprofessional contractors. In order to become a member, the contractor’s background and references are thoroughly investigated.
Will you pull all the required building permits? Make sure your HVAC contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required permits, you know things will be done to “code”.
Do you guarantee your work? Your contractor should guarantee his work for at least one year from date of completion. Some contractors guarantee their work for two or even three years.
Who will be in charge of the job? Make sure you know who to expect on the job whenever work is being performed – especially if sub-contractors will be used.
Will you provide me with written references or testimonials? A good contractor will be happy to provide you with references. You should look for a well-established contractor who can give you several client references from the last 6 months to one year.
What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business? When a significant source of a contractor’s business is derived from repeat and referral business, it usually indicates that his clients are pleased with the work they’ve received.
How do you handle “dirty work”? Make sure the HVAC contractor will make an honest effort to keep debris and dust contained, or notify you when the heavy debris generating operations will take place so you can place sheets over furniture or move sensitive belongings. Make sure the contractor agrees to clean up and place all debris in a predetermined place or refuse container upon completion.< >< ><–>
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