Countless businesses throughout the Fort Worth area advertise cut-rate prices for professional services. They place robocalls, leave cards on your front door and fill the mail box with flyers. When you need a reliable HVAC contractor in Fort Worth, how can you be sure that you’re getting the best deal for your hard-earned money? The wrong hire can leave you with a botched job, an inflated bill and serious problems.
The Importance of a HVAC Contractor License
To work as a certified HVAC specialist in Fort Worth, an individual must pass state-required testing before he can obtain his license. You might think that this accreditation is a formality, but it requires classroom education and two years of field experience before applying to take the exams. The state runs a criminal background check and charges fees for the entire process. After meeting all of the qualifications and passing the tests, a licensed technician continues ongoing training to keep up with the latest HVAC advancements. When you hire a certified HVAC specialist, you can count on his industry expertise, solid background and commitment to the job.
Avoid Risky Business
It’s tempting to hire someone who offers a low rate for his work, but think about why he can undercut an established air conditioning company. An unlicensed HVAC contractor hasn’t paid any fees, isn’t bonded and doesn’t carry liability insurance or workers’ comp. These routine assurances are part of the cost of doing business for a reputable company, but the individual who sidesteps these expenses claims he can save you money. Be aware that any arrangement with an unlicensed contractor comes with hidden costs. If anything goes wrong, your homeowner’s policy won’t cover the work, equipment warranties become void, and you risk noncompliance with local building codes.
Always Ask for Credentials
An unlicensed contractor won’t be forthcoming about his lack of credentials. While his low prices might be tempting, there are steps you can take that will save money and headaches in the long run. Take a look at his mailers, door flyers and work van. A reputable business always posts its license number on advertising material. Ask for references, and beware of dodges or stories about just starting out in your area. Run an online check with the local BBB and Chamber of Commerce for more information. If that cut-rate contractor can’t produce a Texas license along with proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance, he’s not worth the money you might save.
Predatory Contracting Practices
Certified licensing and required credentials usually assure you that you’re dealing with a reputable HVAC specialist, but watch out for serious red flags. A predatory contractor counts on your lack of industry knowledge to make his payday more profitable, so keep an eye on the details. Most big jobs require proper permits, but be wary of someone who wants you to pull the paperwork or says that it isn’t necessary. Always insist on a written, signed contract outlining your project, and never put up more than 25 percent of the job as a down payment. If an individual wants cash or a check made out to him instead of a company, you’re not dealing with a reputable contractor.
If that price on AC repair sounds too good to be true, then you need to ask some important questions. Not every bargain is worth the promised savings, so do a little homework before you hire. With a reputable Texas licensed HVAC professional, you’ll always save money and aggravation, and that’s an investment every homeowner should enjoy.
The licensed HVAC specialists at Max Air have provided professional service to home and business owners throughout Fort Worth and the DFW area for more than 20 years. We’re proud of our longstanding Air Conditioning Contractors of America membership and our sterling BBB accreditation. You can set up a service appointment online. When you call us, you know you’re making the right decision.
