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CHECK THE LICENSE
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.
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
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
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 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.
IS THE HVAC CONTRACTOR INSURED?
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.
GET COMPETITIVE BIDS
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.
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