Choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor in Calgary can be a very daunting task. Many consumers get taken advantage of simply because they do not know what questions to ask. The following article is your step by step guide to choosing a the right contractor to fill your needs.

Where do I start?

A reference from a friend or family member is a good place to start but it does not end there. You should make sure that any company that comes into your house is a member of your local Better Business Bureau. The BBB offers good solutions in case of a dispute. Call several companies and ask if they offer free in home estimates. Narrow your choices down to 2 or 3 companies and have them come to your home to give you a written estimate. Do not go with any company that is willing to give you a price over the phone without seeing the job. A written estimate after seeing the job is a must.

Trust your instincts

When the contractors that you chose show up for your estimate, trust your instincts. Do them seem underhanded? Are they pushy? Do you get the feeling that they do not care about your job and just want your money? If so, this is not the company for you.

Do not be afraid to ask questions. A decent and reputable contractor has nothing to hide. Some of the questions you should ask are:

Is the company licensed and insured?

Will my installer have the necessary journeyman license to do the work?

Will my installer be able to show me his license prior to beginning work?

What precautions will be taken to ensure cleanliness in my home?

Will all garbage be removed and disposed of after the installation is complete?

What is my parts warranty and what is my labor warranty? (2 separate things)

Do you offer 24-hour emergency service?

You should always be taking mental notes through the entire process of choosing your contractor. How much effort did they put into their website? Were they friendly and courteous on the phone? Were they on time? Were they professional? Were they clean? (Clothes, vehicle etc.)

Price

The all-important question. A very low price does not guarantee a good deal anymore than a high price guarantees a great job. Do your homework. Find out approximate costs for similar jobs through friends, family, internet etc. If it seems too good to be true or way to expensive for what you are getting than chances are that it is.

The bottom line

Do your own research. Look into the products you are buying, the company you are hiring and the price you are paying. If you follow these guidelines you should be just fine.