What you MUST know before you hire a contractor…

15 Jun What you MUST know before you hire a contractor…

Before you hire any contractor for home repairs, renovations, or heating and cooling equipment, get referrals from friends, family, or neighbors. This is the MOST important step you will take in the process of selecting a contactor.
Once you have several recommended contactors, your next step is to evaluate each contractor. Begin with how long the contactor has been in business in your area. Check your phone book to see if the contractor is listed. Most serious contractors are. Then, visit the public library and ask to see a phone book that is five years old. More then 90 percent of contractors fold their businesses within three years, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) contactors come and go in this town. Does your contractor have enough solid business history to assure you he will be in business to stand behind his work a year from now?
Then check with your local Better Business Bureau to ensure 1) the contractor is a member of BBB (if they are not, move on), 2) and to inquire about their complaint record, it is not only important to know the number of complaints, but even more importantly, that complaints were resolved satisfactorily.
Is the contractor licensed with Arizona Registrar of Contractors? (Registrar’s phone number: 1-800-271-9286). Is the air conditioning contractor certified to handle refrigerants? This certification is required by law.
Does the contractor offer service for equipment they install, as well as on equipment installed by others? Is service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays and emergency situations? Will your contractor be able to respond fast enough when it is 110 degrees outside and your air conditioner fails?
Will you always be able to speak with a person, not a computerized answering system when you call for service? Is the contractor locally owned and managed or will you be calling an 800 number somewhere in Florida?
Is your contactor professional? Visit their office, look at company vehicles, chat with their employees, and visit their website.
Does your contractor offer free in-home estimates for new equipment? A professional will not be able to give you an exact price over the phone. He will need to come to your home to adequately determine your specific needs. Is there adequate insulation in your walls, attic, etc? Do you have large windows with Western exposure? Will you need additional return air to support the new system? Do you normally experience hot or cold spots in your home?

Temco Air Environmental
Heating, Air Conditioning, Custom Wine Rooms
Sales and Services (520)622-2909