HVAC contractors need to licensed to operate. This licensing can be done at either the state or the local level. Either way, the contractor needs to have some sort of licensing to legally operate as an independent HVAC contractor. The rules governing this licensing will vary from state to state. You can learn more about the specific requirements in your state by contacting the local building inspector or code enforcement office.

Get an estimate from a few different contractors before you settle on one. In the estimate, you should ask for an estimate of both time and money for the project. The time estimate will let you know how long the contractor expects the job to take. The money estimate will let you know what to financially expect from the job. When you get estimates from many sources, you are able to shop around for the person offering the best overall deal.

Ask your contractor for references from past clients. This is especially important when you are working with a new contractor. If you don't know the contractor very well, then these references can be a great way to determine whether or not you want to hire the contractor.