Tips for You!

 

Whether you choose to bring us on board for your project or not; here are a few items to check off your list before moving forward with a contractor.

State Licenses

Allowing unlicensed companies to work in your home can lead to problems down the road. Many HVAC equipment manufacturers warranties are voided if unlicensed work is performed on their system. Licensed HVAC and Electrical contractors must carry liability insurance in most states. Limited recourse is available against unlicensed individuals in the event they fail to honor their warranty or fail to meet state codes on their install.

5 Signs of Unlicensed Contractors:

1.Advertisements do not include the contractor’s license number

2. You are asked to obtain the permit–the contractor should take out the permit before work begins. Unlicensed contractors cannot acquire a permit from the local building inspection department.

3. The contractor is unwilling to put all of the terms in writing and prefers a verbal agreement.

4.The contractor prefers to work on weekends or after hours–reputable contractors keep normal weekday business hours and schedule after hours and weekends for emergency calls.

5. You are told to make the check payable to an individual’s name or asked to make all payments in cash–all payments should be made by check or credit card directly to the company that you are dealing with.

Proof of Insurance

Ask all contractors for proof of insurance prior to allowing them to enter your home for a major project. Tradesmen are required to carry Business Liability and Workers’ Compensation insurance. Allowing a contractor to enter your home that does not have the proper liability insurances could leave you financially liable for not only any damage caused to your home or business, but also at risk of being sued BY THE CONTRACTOR!

FORMS OF INSURANCE TO ASK FOR:

  1. General Liability Insurance

  2. Workers Compensation Insurance