Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Home

Why is it important to choose the right contractor?

By: Sherri Walbeck

Choosing the right contractor for your home service systems is super important. Not only can it save you money in the long run, but it’s also necessary for taking care of your home systems in the future.

Why should you care about the contractor you choose?

     Your air conditioning (AC) system can last up to 15 to 20 years if it’s well-maintained. That’s why it’s important to choose a trusted contractor. Not all contractors are the same, and they don’t all have the right licenses, accreditations, insurance, or education. By choosing the right contractor, you can save money and time in the future.

     Improper installation of heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can cause a 30% reduction in performance, which means you’ll be losing money and time. That’s why it’s vital to choose a contractor with the right credentials and establish a good professional relationship with them.

What should you look for in a contractor?

Here’s a checklist to help you choose the right contractor for your home systems:

Maintenance Plan

     Annual maintenance for your AC and furnace is important to keep them running smoothly. Just like going to the doctor for a check-up, maintenance helps catch any problems before they become bigger issues. Look for a contractor that offers a good maintenance plan that meets your needs.

After Hours Policy

     Emergencies can happen at any time, even outside of business hours. Make sure your contractor has a policy for handling emergencies after hours. Some contractors, like Malek Service, don’t charge extra for emergency service calls.

Installation Process

     When you need a new system, it’s important to know the installation process. A good contractor will provide you with multiple quotes based on different installation options. This way, you can choose the best option for your needs and budget.

Financing Options

     Check if your contractor offers financing options. This can help you pay for the work in a way that fits your budget. Make sure to compare rates and options before making a decision.

Do they have the qualifications?

Warranty

     Make sure to ask about the warranty for your new home system. Understand what it covers and for how long. Some warranties may have clauses that exclude coverage if another company works on the system.

BBB Rating & Accreditation

     Check if the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can find their rating and accreditation on the BBB website. This can give you an idea of their reputation and customer satisfaction.

Insurance

     Ensure that the contractor has liability insurance. This protects you and your property in case of any accidents or damage during the work. Workers compensation is also important to protect the employees on the job.

License

     Every contractor should have a license. In Texas, for example, contractors need to apply to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, pass an exam, and show proof of liability insurance to obtain a license. Make sure your contractor has their license readily available.

What things are important to you?

Reputation

     Check out real customer reviews to get an idea of a contractor’s reputation. You can ask people you trust for referrals or look for reviews online. Google reviews are a good source for unbiased opinions.

Location

     Decide if you prefer a company that operates statewide or is more localized. Big businesses may have more resources, but smaller businesses may prioritize individual customer experiences.

Experience

     If you want to minimize risks with your home systems, choose a contractor with a long-standing reputation and proven expertise in the business.

Community Involvement

     If community involvement is important to you, check if the contractor is active in their community. You can find this information on their website, social media, or by asking them directly.

The contractor you choose to install or care for your major home systems should be knowledgeable, reliable, and trustworthy. At Malek Service Company, we pride ourselves on our core values, including integrity, knowledge, and communication.

Find out for yourself by contacting us today or scheduling an appointment with one of our Central Texas-certified technicians.