We are blessed to live in the land of opportunity where people can take their passion and skills and turn them into a business. This is great for consumers who then have lots of options and choices. Sometimes, however, more choices make sorting the good from the bad more difficult. This is true for the HVAC, plumbing and electrical industry, too. It seems like there are new businesses popping up everywhere. When it comes time to invest in replacing your heating/cooling equipment, remodeling a bathroom or replacing a well pump or water heater, here are some tips on how to make the right choice of mechanical contractors.
When selecting a mechanical contractor, consider these factors:
1. Experience and Reputation: Check out their website, customer reviews and Better Business Bureau standing. How long have they been in business? Ask for references from current customers. A contractor with a solid history won’t hesitate to share these details.
2. Licensing and Insurance: Ensure they are properly licensed and have liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. Additionally, all contractors in Pennsylvania are required to be registered with the PA Office of Attorney General. The registration number is required to be clearly displayed on all vehicles and forms of advertisement. Use this number to research the contractor’s history. A contractor who is not registered is a red flag.
3. Certifications: Look for certifications from manufacturers or professional organizations that demonstrate expertise. Contractors who go the extra mile to stay up to date with training and technology will go the extra mile for you too!
4. Written Estimates: Obtain detailed, written estimates to compare costs and understand the scope of work. Be cautious of contractors who provide “on the spot” pricing or who offer pricing without visiting your home first. Every home and every situation are different therefore, pricing should be individualized and may take some time.
5. Warranty and Guarantees: Verify what warranties or guarantees are offered on both labor and parts. Ask the contractor who is responsible for registering equipment which activates the warranty. A quality contractor who is willing to provide top-notch customer service will handle this task for you.
6. Communication and Professionalism: Evaluate responsiveness and professionalism during initial interactions, as this often reflects their service quality. Are questions welcomed and answered by administrative staff as well as field technicians? A quality contractor will be happy to answer your questions on all levels.
7. Emergency Services: Check if they offer emergency services or support in case of unexpected issues. Many contractors are willing to install new products but when it comes to after-hours emergencies, they are not available and don’t answer the phone. Get a clear understanding of the process for how to get assistance when emergencies arise. A contractor who is dependable will have a clear system in place, more than just a cell phone number which can be easily ignored.
8. Responsive to Repeat Problems. Not all problems are easily identified or resolved. A quality contractor will answer the phone and respond when the problem is not fixed on the first visit. They will utilize outside resources to find solutions and not give up. They will accept responsibility when necessary and will listen to questions and concerns in this area.
At W&W Residential Services, we are proud of our reputation and history, and we are confident in our ability to set the bar for top-notch service. We stand by our motto, THE QUALITY YOU EXPECT, THE SERVICE YOU DESERVE”
For more information about our services and to see how we can assist you, call W&W Residential Services today at (570) 758-4250 or contact us online.
