When they require HVAC service, Cincinnati homeowners should look for contractors who are reliable, trustworthy and experienced. Whether you need repair work performed or you want to replace the outdated HVAC equipment in your home, always ask for references and check a company's history with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). To ensure top-notch service, one key question to ask each contractor is if they're licensed and insured. 

These are two essential traits that every HVAC service tech should have, so let's consider what each one offers you:

Licensed

HVAC technicians must pass the comprehensive licensing examination offered through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB). To qualify to take the state exam, an individual must be a legal U.S. resident aged 18 or older. They must meet the state's requirements for experience in the trade and prove that they have five years of relevant work history. An applicant has to show proof of insurance coverage and disclose any prior convictions for disqualifying offenses, including felonies. 

Before taking the exam, a technician must also complete a state and federal background check. Here in Cincinnati, state-licensed HVAC contractors must also register with the city's Department of Trade and Development. By only considering a contractor who's licensed, you'll know you're dealing with a reputable and qualified professional.

Insured

Licensed HVAC contractors must carry adequate insurance to protect customers against unforeseen damages or injuries. The City of Cincinnati's registration requires that a contractor provide proof of Worker's Compensation coverage, which is vital to shield you from liability in case a technician or other employee is injured while working in your home. 

As part of their Ohio licensing application, HVAC contractors must prove that they carry $500,000 in liability insurance. This coverage protects you from damages caused to your home or bodily injuries that result from a technician's negligence. Since most homeowners' insurance policies don't cover such events, hiring an HVAC contractor who has this coverage in place is vital.

To schedule HVAC service in your Cincinnati home by a fully licensed and insured technician, contact us today at JonLe Heating & Cooling.

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