HANDY TIPS FOR CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR
CHECK THE LICENSE
HVAC contractors must be licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and hold a current, valid license from the Department of Public Safety. Ask for the contractors license.
Remember, it is illegal for a contractor to use another contractor’s license, just as it is illegal for someone to use another’s drivers license.
CHECK REFERENCES
Ask the HVAC contractor for local references. Call to see if they were satisfied with the work. A reputable HVAC contractor will be proud to list their references. If possible, visit a job in progress o see how the contractor works. Talk to the customer about work habits, costs and the contractor’s level of cooperation. find out if the contractor has maintained the work schedule and honored the terms of the contract.
Bedford Mechanical, Inc. Contact Us or call (781) 275-1668 for a list of Customer References.
IS THE HVAC CONTRACTOR INSURED?
In Massachusetts, the law requires workers compensation insurance coverage for licensed contractors. Ask the HVAC contractor if his company is insured against property damage, and personal liability in case of accidents. Ask to see a copy of the certificate of insurance (or ask the name of your contractor’s insurance carrier or agency) to verify if the contractor has insurance.
Bedford Mechanical, Inc. Insurance through Liberty Mutual, Welsh & Parker Insurance Agency 978-562-5652.
GET COMPETITIVE BIDS
Do not automatically accept the contractor with the lowest price. First, make sure that all bids are based on the same set of service equipment and specifications. Discuss he bids in detail with each contractor and make sure you understand the reasons for variations in price. A higher price may be your lowest overall cost if the materials used are of higher quality or the work is more complete.
Beware of a bid that is substantially lower than others. it indicates that the contractor has made a mistake or is not including all the work (and/or material) quoted by competitors. You are sure to have a dispute with a contractor is you accept a low bid based on an error or misunderstanding.
Bedford Mechanical, Inc. Call (781) 275-1668 or Email us for a bid.
