Hiring a Licensed HVAC Contractor in California

The C-20 licence

The Contractors State License Board issues the C-20 licence for warm-air heating, ventilating and air-conditioning contractors.

Check it

Use the CSLB's online licence check to confirm the licence is active and see bond and workers' compensation details.

Refrigerant

Technicians handling refrigerant need EPA Section 608 certification.

Permits

Ask who pulls the permit and arranges inspection and Title 24 testing.

Written contracts

Get a written contract with the equipment, price, payment schedule and start date.

Deposits

California limits down payments on home improvement contracts. Ask about the payment schedule before signing.

Red flags

No licence number, cash-only deals, or offers to skip the permit.

Get started

Send a request and an HVAC technician will get in touch.

Home improvement contracts

For most residential jobs, California requires a written home improvement contract that includes the contractor's licence number, a description of the work, the price and a schedule of payments. Read it carefully before signing, and keep a copy.

The down payment rule

Under state law, the down payment on a home improvement contract generally can't be more than 10 percent of the contract price or 1,000 dollars, whichever is less. Be cautious of anyone asking for much more up front.

Questions to ask

Will you do a load calculation? What efficiency and refrigerant does the new system use? Who arranges the HERS verification if it's needed? What's covered by the equipment warranty and by your labour warranty? How do you handle problems found after installation?

Right to cancel

For many contracts signed at your home, California gives you a short period to cancel. The contract should explain how.

More AC guides

• Keeping Your Home Cool on 100°F Days in the Valley
• AC Won't Cool? What to Check First
• Replacing a Swamp Cooler With Central Air
• Wildfire Smoke and Your HVAC Filter
• Title 24 and Duct Testing: What Modesto Homeowners Should Know