Quick Answer
When choosing an HVAC contractor in Charlotte, verify NC licensing (required), check Google reviews (4.5+ stars ideal), get 2-3 written quotes, ensure they'll pull permits, and ask about warranty coverage. Red flags: no license, pressure to decide immediately, prices far below others, won't provide written quotes. Take time to choose—a poor installation can cost thousands to fix.
Choosing the right HVAC contractor is one of the most important home decisions you'll make. A good contractor installs equipment that runs efficiently for 15-20 years. A bad one leaves you with problems that cost thousands to fix—or worse, a dangerous installation.
Here's how to find a quality contractor in Charlotte and avoid the common pitfalls.
Step 1: Verify NC Licensing
In North Carolina, HVAC contractors must hold a valid license from the NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. This is non-negotiable.
How to Check
Why it matters: Unlicensed work often violates code, may not be insured, and can void manufacturer warranties. If something goes wrong, you have no recourse.
Step 2: Check Reviews and Reputation
Online reviews are your best window into how a company actually operates. Look for:
Review Research Checklist
- Google reviews – Most reliable source. Look for 4.5+ stars and 50+ reviews
- Volume AND quality – More reviews means more data points
- Recent reviews – Companies can change over time
- Detailed reviews – Specific praise/criticism is more valuable than "great service"
- Company responses – How do they handle complaints?
- BBB rating – Check for complaints and how they were resolved
Be wary of companies with very few reviews, only 5-star reviews (may be fake), or a pattern of complaints about the same issues.
Step 3: Get Multiple Quotes
For any significant work (repairs over $500, installations), get 2-3 quotes. This helps you understand fair pricing and gives you different perspectives on the problem.
What a Good Quote Includes
- Detailed equipment specifications (brand, model, efficiency)
- All included work (installation, electrical, permits, disposal)
- Timeline and scheduling
- Warranty information (both manufacturer and labor)
- Payment terms
Compare Apples to Apples
Step 4: Ask the Right Questions
Questions for Any HVAC Contractor
Essential Questions
- 1
"What's your NC license number?"
Should answer immediately. Verify it.
- 2
"Do you carry liability and workers' comp insurance?"
Ask for certificate of insurance. Protects you from liability.
- 3
"Will you pull the required permits?"
The answer should be yes. Permitted work is inspected and code-compliant.
- 4
"What warranty do you provide on labor?"
Equipment has manufacturer warranty; labor warranty is separate.
- 5
"How do you size equipment for my home?"
Look for "Manual J load calculation." Square footage alone isn't accurate.
- 6
"How long have you been in business?"
Longevity indicates stability and experience.
Red Flags to Avoid
- No license or won't provide license number – Walk away immediately
- Pressure to sign today – Legitimate contractors let you think
- Price far below everyone else – Usually means corners will be cut
- Cash-only or demands full payment upfront – Sign of instability
- Won't provide written quote – Never proceed on a verbal estimate
- No permit mentioned – Unlicensed/uninspected work causes problems
- Bad-mouths every competitor – Professionals don't need to tear others down
- Recommends oversizing "just to be safe" – Oversized systems cause problems
- Very new company with no track record – Higher risk
Company Types: Large vs. Small
Large/National Companies
Pros: Name recognition, often have 24/7 availability, may have more technicians. Cons: Higher overhead often means higher prices (30-50% more), commissioned salespeople may push unnecessary upsells, less personal service.
Local/Family-Owned Companies
Pros: Lower overhead, often more competitive pricing, more personal accountability, community reputation matters. Cons: May have limited availability during peak season, smaller operation.
Our Perspective
How Payment Should Work
For Repairs
Most repairs are paid in full at completion. A diagnostic fee ($50-$100) is often charged upfront or waived with repair.
For Installations
Payment structures vary, but common approaches include:
- Payment at completion – Full payment when work is done and working
- Deposit + balance – Small deposit (10-30%) upfront, balance at completion
- Financing – Monthly payments through a financing partner
Never Pay in Full Upfront
After You Choose
Before Work Begins
- Get written contract with all terms
- Confirm permit will be pulled
- Verify start date and timeline
- Know who to contact with questions
- Understand payment terms
After Work Completes
- Review completed work with technician
- Get copies of all permits and inspections
- Receive warranty documentation
- Understand maintenance requirements
- Know how to contact for future service
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by
Kodiak HVAC Team
HVAC professional at Kodiak Heating & Cooling.