Handy Tips For Choosing A Contractor

Do you want an experienced and committed company working for you?

The name on the pocket license should be the same as the contractor (or the name of the business). To find out if an HVAC specialist is licensed in Wisconsin, call the Department of Commerce, Division of Safety and Buildings (608) 261-8500 or go to http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/SB/SB-HomePage.html and look up the 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 driver’s license.

Is the contractor certified for the equipment you own?

Southeastern Mechanical, Inc. is certified in the following:

• Wisconsin Department of Commerce HVAC Qualifier Certification

• Wisconsin Department of Commerce HVAC Contractors Registration & 5- Wisconsin Refrigerant Handling Technician Certifications

• Certified to work on Cincinnati Sub Zero Refrigeration Chambers & ESPEC Refrigeration Chambers

• Certified to work on all major brands of equipment
  

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 to 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.

Southeastern Mechanical, Inc. Contact Us or call (262) 878-0634 for a list of Customer References.  Or, see our Customer Testimonials page.

In Wisconsin, 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 for the name of your contractor’s insurance carrier and agency) to verify that the contractor has insurance.

Do not automatically accept the contractor with the lowest price. First, make sure all bids are based on the same set of service and equipment specifications. Discuss the 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 the contractor has made a mistake or is not including all of the work (and/or material) quoted by competitors. You are sure to have a dispute with a contractor if you accept a low bid based on an error or misunderstanding.