Research:
Before selecting a contractor for this important decision we strongly recommend that you research both our and any other prospective contractors, contractor status on the Washington Labor & Industry web site at https://fortress.wa.gov/lni/bbip/

Once on this web site:

1. Type in our parent company name (Evergreen State Sheet Metal) in the “Name (part or all)” box
2. Click the “Look up” box to get to our site and verify the status of our “Construction” and “Electrical” license status (which should be “Active”).
3. Hit the hypertext contractor license numbers (i.e. “EVERGSS022OT” and “EVERGSS000SJ”) and view the information on: ownership, bonding, insurance, summons/complaint (e.g. angry customers, vendors not paid, etc.)
4. Do 1-3 above with every other contractor coming to your home to bid.

Please note that ALL heating and air conditioning contractors are required to have BOTH a “Construction” and “Electrical” license that are “ACTIVE”. Many contractors only have a “Construction” license; but an ACTIVE “Electrical” license is required to provide warranty and service for your new heating and/or cooling system.

NOTE THAT ANY CONTRACTOR WHO DOES NOT HAVE BOTH OF THESE LICENSES “ACTIVE” CAN DRAW A PENALTY FOR BOTH HOMEOWNER AND CONTRACTOR WHICH WILL NEED TO BE RESOLVED BY THE HOMEOWNER BEFORE THE HOME IS SOLD.

1. Check credentials. Before making your selection, call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the dealer is reputable. Also, find out if the dealer is a member of a local or national association such as the Air Conditioning Contractors Association of America.
2. Make sure the dealer is affiliated with a nationally known manufacturer. Dealers should be taking advantage of factory training offered by their manufacturer. As a result, when they make recommendations, you can be more assured that they've selected the right size system for your home, and that they've been trained in installation and service.
3. Ask for references. Former customers are an excellent source of information. Also, ask to see installation photos. A dealer that is proud of work will be more than happy to show it to you.
4. Expect an on-site evaluation of your home. A good dealer will take a thorough look at your home, ask questions and evaluate your overall comfort needs before making a recommendation. Beware of a dealer that simply takes information over the phone. A good dealer will also look the part. While they are evaluating your home, you should be evaluating them.
5. Check local licenses. Depending on where you live, dealers may have to comply with certain local or state regulations, so ask to see proof of these licenses as well as insurance forms for liability and workmen's compensation.
6. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask for details about the firm's experience and the expertise of its staff. This is particularly important if you're also adding or changing ductwork in this case, experience is definitely a factor in getting the job done correctly.
7. Get a written proposal. To make a fair comparison, make sure the proposals you receive are all based on the same efficiency and equipment. You'll also want to evaluate each dealer's personal business standards and policies. For example, will they remove old equipment? Will they relocate equipment if you want your new system installed in a different location? What are the clean up and care policies during installation? How will they handle emergency repair? These are just a few of the additional elements a good proposal will include.
8. Inquire about equipment and labor warranties. Limited warranties vary according to the manufacturer, so make sure you fully understand what you're getting. Also, don't forget to inquire about manufacturer's extended warranties at the time of purchase and other warranties provided by the dealer.
9. Ask about preventive maintenance service agreements. Many dealers offer service agreements that call for periodic maintenance of equipment, and if needed repairs. The fee for such agreements is usually well worth it in terms of obtaining optimum efficiency and performance for your system.
10. Finally insist on a written agreement. Commit your agreement to writing and have the dealer sign it.