Consumer Heating and Cooling Education Centre
Finding Reputable Contractors
There are many ways to find a contractor to provide for your home comfort needs, but not all of them are equally effective. Personal referrals from trusted friends, family and/or colleagues are a good start, but you should also consider going directly to the industry's professional association for assistance.
Contractor companies that hold membership in the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) have been pre-screened to ensure that they possess the relevant trade licences, technical certifications and insurance coverage that you should expect from any contractor with which you would entrust the care of your home comfort system. Look for the HRAI Member Company logo when choosing a contractor. You can verify that they are a member by searching the HRAI online Contractor Locator.
Getting Estimates
When comparing estimates, the statements about the work to be performed and the materials used should be of comparable quality, or the estimates should make proper allowances for any differences. Be sure that the estimate is in writing and includes the proper permits and licences. The warranty policy should be clearly stated for equipment, materials and labour. If the contractor uses sub-contractors for some of the actual work, these should be specified both in the proposal and in the contract.
The Contract
The contract is the agreement between you and the contractor that specifies what work will be performed and gives a firm dollar value on that work. It is a legal, binding document when signed by both parties, so be sure you understand and agree with the contents before signing.
Insurance
It is important that the contractor and any sub-contractors each have public liability and property damage insurance, and be able to produce a certificate of good standing from the Workers' Compensation Board. You may wish to ask who the policy is with and follow up to verify that it is current.
Payment
Payment methods will vary to meet your preferences or needs, and may include financing, credit, cash or an equipment rental program. In any case, the payment schedule should be easy to understand and should clearly state what, if any, interest charges apply. Make sure to inquire about any applicable energy-effiency rebates.
References
Reputable contractors will be more that willing to give you the names and addresses of customers they've done work for in your area. You may also wish to contact the Better Business Bureau, which maintains records of consumer complaints.
More Consumer Tips and Information
Consumer Awareness
- Carbon Monoxide - What you need to know
- Think Carefully Before Buying a Water Heater at the Door
- Before you buy, consider the "heart & lungs" of your new home
- Maintaining your heating system is good for you - and it's the law
- Moving Away from HCFC Refrigerants - The HCFC Refrigerant Phaseout
- Some Jobs Are Best Left to the Experts
Energy Efficiency and Indoor Air Quality
- Heat and Cool Your Home from the Earth
- A Clean Home is Cheaper to Run
- A Clean Furnace System is at the Heart of a Healthy Home
- It's time for your annual check-up
- Keeping Canada clean: Industry-led program safely disposes of harmful chemicals
- Eliminate, Ventilate, Filter...
- Consumer's Guide to Heat Pumps
- Energy Star - HVAC EnerGuide
Heating Season Tips
Air Conditioning Season Tips
- Optimize Your Air Conditioning System
- Choosing the Right Air Conditioner for Your Home
- Four spring cleaning tips to save money on energy
- Zoning Technology Cools the House More Efficiently
- Keep Cool Without Losing Your Cool (household air conditioner noise)
- Replacing Your Central Air Conditioning or Heat Pump System -- Choosing a properly-matched system
- Choose the Right Size of Air Conditioner, Furnace, Heat Pump or Boiler to fit your home
Indoor Air Quality
Have a question or concern that is not addressed here? Contact HRAI directly.