It’s no secret that a properly functioning HVAC system is crucial to the comfort of your home. But when it comes time to hire an HVAC contractor, how can you be sure you’re getting someone who will do the job right? Here are some important questions to ask before hiring an HVAC contractor in Annapolis, MD:
Are You Licensed and Insured?
When hiring an HVAC contractor, you want to be sure the company is properly licensed and insured. This protects you in case something goes wrong during the job. Be sure to ask for proof of both before moving forward.
When you ask about licenses and insurance, inquire about other credentials the contractor may have. This can include things like industry certifications or training. The more credentials a contractor has, the better.
What’s Your Experience?
You’ll want to hire a contractor with plenty of experience. Ask about the contractor’s history, how long the company has been in business and the types of projects the company typically works on. The more experience contractors have, the better equipped they will be to handle your project.
With these, you can also ask about references. Good contractors should be able to provide you with a list of past clients who can vouch for their work. This way, you can get first-hand accounts of what it’s like to work with them.
What’s Your Policy on Overtime Charges?
Some contractors will charge you extra for overtime, and others won’t. It’s important to know the policy before hiring a contractor because this can be a significant cost if you’re not careful.
You need to understand how contractors charge for overtime. If they charge by the hour, you need to know their hourly rate. If they charge a flat fee, you’ll want to know how much that fee is.
Can You Provide a Written Estimate?
When hiring a contractor, you’ll want to get a written project cost estimate. This way, there are no surprises down the road. The estimate should contain a list to show exactly what you’re paying for.
Be sure to ask about any other documents the contractor will need, such as a contract or proposal. These can give you additional information about the project and help you make an informed decision.
What’s Your Warranty Policy?
Most contractors will offer some warranty on their work. This protects you in case something goes wrong once the job is complete. Be sure to ask about the warranty terms, such as how long it lasts and what it covers.
You should also inquire about any other guarantees the contractor offers. For example, some contractors may guarantee their work for a certain period. Others may offer a money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the results.
This will help you understand what type of protection you have if something goes wrong. It is also safe practice to save all paperwork related to the warranty in case you need to use it later.
What Are Your Payment Terms?
HVAC contractors will typically require some payment upfront. This is usually a deposit that goes toward the project’s total cost. Be sure to ask about the payment terms before hiring a contractor.
You’ll also want to know when the final payment is due. Some contractors will require full payment upon completion of the job, while others will give you a grace period to make the payment. It’s important to know this so you can budget accordingly.
What’s Your Cancellation Policy?
Sometimes, you may need to cancel your project after hiring a contractor. Knowing the contractor’s cancellation policy is important so you don’t lose your deposit.
Some contractors will allow you to cancel without penalty if you give them enough notice. Others will charge a cancellation fee, which could be a percentage of the total project cost. Be sure to ask about this before hiring a contractor.
Asking these questions before hiring an HVAC contractor can save you time and money. Be sure to get all the information you need before making a decision. Contact us at Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. for professional heating and cooling services.
Image provided by iStock