It’s no secret that HVAC systems are expensive. For that reason, many homeowners in Asheboro, North Carolina, might feel tempted to cut costs by hiring an unlicensed HVAC contractor. However, their work comes with several risks and hidden costs, including shoddy craftsmanship, voided warranties, liability issues and safety hazards.
Shoddy Craftsmanship
To receive an HVAC license in North Carolina, contractors must be able to show two years of experience (or one year of experience plus an equivalent academic or technical training course) and pass a four-part exam. These requirements help reassure customers that the contractor knows what they’re doing. With an unlicensed contractor, you have no such assurance.
Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. An unlicensed contractor’s cheaper rates could be indicative of shoddy craftsmanship, which can end up causing bigger and more expensive problems down the line. Therefore, it’s imperative to hire a licensed HVAC contractor to avoid those risks.
Voided Warranties
Beyond any issues directly caused by the contractor, homeowners may run into another problem: voided warranties. Often, the only way to keep your HVAC system’s warranty intact is to have any HVAC maintenance, installations or repairs completed by a licensed contractor. Relying on an unlicensed contractor could leave you in the lurch if you ever need to make a warranty claim.
Liability Issues
If an HVAC contractor isn’t bothered to get their license, they probably don’t have insurance either. Licensed contractors must typically carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Absent these policies, homeowners may be held liable for any injuries a contractor sustains while working on their property.
Safety Hazards
Finally, shoddy craftsmanship won’t only affect your family’s comfort and budget. It can also put your family in danger. A bad wiring job could cause a fire, while an undetected gas leak could result in carbon monoxide poisoning or even death.
For your next HVAC installation, turn to the licensed and NATE-certified HVAC service technicians at Charlie’s Heating & Cooling. Call us today at (336) 629-5453 to avoid the risks that come with hiring an unlicensed HVAC contractor.
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