Even though hiring an unlicensed HVAC contractor may seem
like a cheaper choice than an insured, bonded, and licensed company, the
long-term risks associated with such collaboration may lead to unnecessary
trouble. The issues are simple but complicated.
What to
expect from unlicensed contractors:
- Low quality workmanship leading to below average equipment performance
- Unreliable air conditioning services, such as inferior A/C installation
- Downright deceitful or incomplete troubleshooting reports
- Unforeseen cost increases or inadequate HVAC equipment reliability
Dealing with unlicensed and untrained service techs may appear
to be a great way to save money, but in a flick of a second such preconceived
savings can explode into a big financial nightmare. AC technicians who work
outside the parameters of law have a tendency to ignore industry-accepted
installation and service regulations. Such people take complete advantage of lax
in enforcement of licensing requirements, permitting rules, and the Clean Air
Act.
Choose
Reputation over Low-price
A good reputation is vital in the industry of HVAC repair
and maintenance, and word-of-mouth marketing is the essence of established
customer trust. Experts believe, that unlicensed contractors can do a lot of
damage due to lack of proper skill, training and knowledge, and can hurt the customer’s
pocket. Hiring a reputed contractor will be cost effective. Moreover, since the
customer has no real contract with the unlicensed service providers, they
cannot hold them accountable.
Here are three main points to keep in mind:
- Unlicensed will mean low bids, but the legal and financial consequences may be more than a consumer signed up to face
- Hiring a reputed and licensed AC contractor offers better protection than any post event legal remedies
- Most licensed air conditioning contractors are dedicated, competent, well trained and financially responsible
To get a license, the contractor has to show capability and experience.
The test is intended to disregard shade tree heating and cooling service techs.
Construction licensing can help a consumer in finding a reliable and principled
A/C contractor. Since, the cooling and heating industry is sprouting, reaching
beyond cooling and heating and stretching into the fields of indoor air quality
(IAQ), licensing can greatly benefit the consumers in differentiating.
Become
a well-informed home owner:
Most homeowners can avoid construction problems by knowing
their home improvement rights. Informed customers make better purchasing
decisions. Working with a reputed AC contractor helps in ensuring that you do
not get victimized by unlicensed or unscrupulous HVAC contractors. In case you
have a new unit installed within your house, make sure you check the condition
of your present ductwork. Even the most efficient energy-saving air
conditioning equipment can fritter away energy where the duct require serious
repair.
When as a homeowner you hire a questionable provider for HVAC
service work, the final experience may turn out to be a nightmare. Therefore,
it is important to keep the bigger picture in mind and hire a licensed
contractor, even if it means paying a little extra.