Selecting an HVAC contractor is an important decision when remodeling your home, or upgrading an older system. Perhaps you have a referral from a friend or received an advertising mailer from a local contractor. You’ve checked the Internet and you might have checked them out with the Better Business Bureau. But how do you know if any of them can really do the job professionally and properly?
Here are five questions to ask when selecting an HVAC contractor.
1. Licenses, Insurance, Certifications
- Ask the contractor to show you a copy of his license. HVAC contractors are licensed by the city of Minneapolis. Check with your municipality to verify.
- Insurance is critical. Be certain that the contractor has adequate worker’s comp and liability insurance.
- Be certain your HVAC contractor is NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certified. This will insure they have the skills and knowledge necessary to do it right.
2. Written Contract, Warranty, Employees
- Verify that you will receive a written contract that includes a warranty. Be certain to understand what the warranty covers and for how long.
- Ask if the HVAC contractor will use his own employees or subcontract out the work. If subcontracting, verify the sub maintains NATE certification and is covered under the contractor’s insurance.
3. Time in Business, Locations
- The longer a contractor has been in business, the more likely they will be around later to maintain your system.
- Check that they have office locations nearby in case of emergency calls.
4. Can You Provide Referrals?
- Ask if the referrals would be willing to speak with you or if you can see completed jobs. Beside NATE certification, satisfied prior customers are your best resource.
5. Work Schedule, Clean Up
- Be certain the contractor has a predetermined work plan and can explain in detail how clean up is handled. Knowing this in advance, particularly for big jobs, indicates how organized the contractor is. Professionals are organized, amateurs often wing it.
When selecting an HVAC contractor use a professional HVAC contractor like Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning. The Twin Cities best, licensed, NATE certified HVAC Contractor will answer your questions until you’re satisfied they’re the right contractor for you.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about selecting an HVAC contractor and other topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning services Minnesota’s Twin Cities. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!