You can't see home comfort or touch it, but we all know what it feels
like when we don't have it. Whether you're considering replacing your old
air conditioning system or remodeling a bathroom, Pell Air and Heating Inc
can help. First, you need the right contractor. With all of the clutter
and options, how do you make heads or tails out of choosing the right contractor
for your home improvement project?
Pell Air and Heating
Inc is a premier home comfort specialist; and, with the
cooperation of the Attorney General and your local Better Business Bureau,
we gathered ten time-tested tips for selecting the best contractor for
your project.
Check credentials: Before making your choice, call your local Better
Business Bureau and affiliated state and community agencies for a
company history of complaints and resolutions to make sure the dealer
is reputable.
Ask for references: Current customers are an excellent source of
information and are often willing to share their experience.
Check local licenses: Ask to see any applicable state and local
licenses, bonding, and insurance coverage.
Get a detailed written
proposal: Beware of a dealer that does not
back-up their offer in a detailed written proposal. A detailed written
proposal is one sign of a quality contractor.
Heat loss-heat gain
calculation: Expect a thorough calculation performed
with an on-site evaluation. A good contractor should measure your
home, check insulation factors, and evaluate your overall comfort
needs.
Equipment/labor warranties
and guarantees: Warranties and guarantees
vary according to manufacturer and dealer. Don't be afraid to ask
questions and demand that they are included in the written estimate.
Follow contract law: Demand that your contractor follows contract
law. A new comfort system is a big decision and with big decisions
comes responsibility. According to Indiana law, all home improvement
contracts include a 3-day right to cancel.
Ask your contractor
about the maintenance requirements of your new system: What can you do yourself and/or does the contractor offer
maintenance services? A maintenance agreement is one of the best
ways to ensure your system's performance, reliability and safety.
Know and understand
the contract: Beware of ambiguous contracts
and again, ask lots of questions. It is very important to understand
all aspects of the agreement with your contractor before any work
begins.
Get more than one
estimate or reference: If you are uncomfortable
making your decision for any reason, get two or three estimates or
references and compare. More information is better than less; however,
compare more than just price when evaluating estimates. Look for
the best value!
The Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Contractor:
By selecting a qualified heating, cooling, and plumbing contractor,
you will avoid many of the common home improvement hazards including:
Frequent system breakdowns
Improper installation
Unsafe and/or inefficient operation
Shortened equipment life
Lack of timely service
Unusually high energy bills
Voiding of factory warranties
Theft, property damage or worse
Pell Air and Heating Inc is one of the largest and
most trusted home comfort specialists, and we encourage our customers
to do their home work. We're confident that, in the end, we can earn
your business and help you avoid the perils of selecting the wrong
contractor. There are no shortcuts when it comes to selecting the right
contractor; however, given the opportunity, we hope to earn your business.