Consumers have an overwhelming number of options today when looking for a new HVAC contractor. The contractor you choose will impact the experience, so you want to pick the right professional by asking the right questions. Ask these eight questions before you hire an HVAC contractor in California, MD.
1. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Start by learning how long the company has been in business under its current business name. Generally speaking, the longer in business, the better. Hancock Refrigeration Heating & Air Cooling has been in business since 1992.
While inexpensive, new businesses often experience growing pains, and they don’t have as much experience from previous clients. Established businesses with established reputations have effective systems in place and a long history of positive client reviews.
2. What Services Do You Offer, and Which Ones Are Your Specialties?
Learn about the different services offered by the company in question. Not all HVAC contractors offer all of the services you require, so you need to narrow down any contenders who don’t fit your specific needs.
You not only want a company that offers the services you need but also has extensive experience in that particular area. Ask the contractor to describe the majority of the work they do to get a sense of what the company specializes in.
3. How Often and How Will We Communicate?
You want to know what to expect in terms of communication before, during, and after the job. Who will be your point of contact throughout the job? How soon can you expect a response during business hours and after business hours?
Additionally, you should clarify the best form of communication. Some people prefer text or email over phone calls and visa versa.
4. Do You Offer a Guarantee on Your Work?
Improper installation can cause serious problems, such as premature damage and disqualification of the warranty. If the installer makes a mistake, what can you expect in terms of correcting things?
5. How Often Do You Go Over Budget?
An HVAC contractor will give you an estimate for the work. However, unforeseen variables can add to the total bill. Some contractors will provide a lower estimate to lure customers but then pile on fees during the job, so ask how often the contractor stays on budget during the job.
Leave room in your budget for unexpected expenses, even if the contractor claims to stay on a budget a majority of the time. You will feel more comfortable knowing that you have a little bit of wiggle room.
6. Who Will Be Doing the Work?
The contractor may or may not do the work himself, depending on the job. The contractor may also need to bring in help. You should know who will be coming into your home and when.
At this time, ask about vetting and training policies. Ideally, for customers’ peace of mind, the contractor will run a background check on all the employees working on the job.
7. When Do You Expect Payment?
Will the contractor require any payment up front, or will you pay at the completion of the job? You can also ask about payment plans if you don’t have the money to pay for the job outright.
8. How Soon Can You Complete the Work?
Once you find a contractor, you will need to schedule the work. Some consumers are working on a tight timeline while others don’t need to start the work immediately. It’s not enough to find a good contractor; you’ll need to find an HVAC contractor that fits into your schedule.
At Hancock Refrigeration Heating & Air Conditioning, we are confident we can impress you with the answers to all of your questions. When you need air conditioning services in California, MD, contact Hancock Refrigeration Heating & Air Conditioning today!
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