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What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Lincoln?

When looking for services related to the installation, maintenance, and repair of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems in Lincoln, hiring a skilled HVAC contractor is important. Employing a professional contractor ensures these tasks are handled properly, efficiently, and in accordance with the Lincoln Mechanical Code and other relevant ventilation and indoor air quality standards. Besides improving your equipment's efficiency, these professionals can help you lower your energy bills.

Some of the most common tasks that a skilled HVAC contractor can handle are listed below:

• Installation, repair, and filter replacement of central AC
• Air quality testing
• Cleaning and sealing air duct
• Installation and repair of ductless mini-split systems
• Furnace installation and tune-ups
• Heat pump repair
• Design, installation, and energy-efficient upgrade of a whole building's HVAC system

Are You Licensed as an HVAC Contractor in Lincoln?

HVAC contractors who wish to offer their services in Lincoln must possess a valid, locally-issued license. The Lincoln Department of Building and Safety issues licenses to individuals who offer heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional services. Any individual who bids as an HVAC contractor without a valid license is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable with a fine of not more than $500, six months in jail, or both.

The Department offers varying licensing classifications depending on the applicant's experience and the scope of their services:

• HVAC Apprentice License: Individuals who wish to become an apprentice in Lincoln must register with the Department.
• Journeyman Mechanical Technician License: These professionals work under the supervision of a contractor with a master mechanical contractor license. After completing the approved apprenticeship, interested individuals must accumulate three years of experience to take the journeyman licensing exam.
• Master Mechanical Contractor License: This license allows a licensed contractor to own and operate a business that provides heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services. These professionals can register for the contractor exam after one year of working as a licensed technician.

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements to obtain a license from the city's Department of Building and Safety. Note that HVAC contractors who intend to work with equipment, systems, or devices that contain refrigerants must also obtain a federally mandated Section 608 certification from an EPA-approved agency.

Therefore, before agreeing to work with a Lincoln HVAC contractor, ensure they have the necessary licenses and are qualified to provide the services you need. You can use the Department of Building and Safety's Current Mechanical Registered Tradespersons List to verify if your prospective HVAC contractor holds a valid license. Contact the Department of Building and Safety at (402) 441-7521 for more information on Lincoln's licensing process and requirements.

What Rates Do You Charge for Your HVAC Services in Lincoln?

Depending on the type of project and the cost of materials, the typical heating and air conditioning project in Lincoln can range from $200 to $12,000. Specific factors like the following influence the actual cost:

• The nature and scope of the work to be done
• The urgency of the project
• The building layout
• The type and size of HVAC equipment involved
• The cost of pulling necessary permits
• Other miscellaneous expenses like renovation costs and purchasing smart thermostats, dehumidifiers, and other HVAC-enhancing components

Before deciding on an HVAC contractor to work with, you must get and compare quotes from multiple ones. Doing this will allow you to get a working estimate for your project and help you avoid getting ripped off by fraudulent contractors.

Will My HVAC Project Require a Permit in Lincoln?

Typically, projects that involve installing, altering, and repairing Lincoln's heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and other mechanical systems require permits. The Lincoln Department of Building and Safety issues mechanical permits only to homeowners who reside in a single-family dwelling or will reside there after its construction.

For more information on the mechanical permitting process in Lincoln, you can contact the city's Department of Building and Safety via email or make your inquiries in person at

What Type of HVAC Services Do You Offer in Lincoln?

Many reputable Lincoln HVAC contractors offer various services to city residents. The following are examples of these services:

Be aware that some contractors also charge minimum service fees of about $50 - $200.

Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the HVAC Work in Lincoln?

Before hiring an HVAC contractor, ask if they will handle your project independently or outsource it. Although licensed HVAC contractors can handle specific tasks themselves, they often subcontract work to other contractors for assistance and faster delivery.

If your HVAC contractor will subcontract your work, take the following steps to minimize difficulties with the subcontractors:

• Verify that each HVAC subcontractor is appropriately licensed and experienced.
• Confirm the subcontractor's insurance status.
• Request a lien waiver to protect you if the primary contractor fails to pay the subcontractors on time.

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Lincoln HVAC Contractor?

Lincoln HVAC contractors must maintain commercial or comprehensive general liability insurance coverage to provide services in the city legally. You should hire an insured HVAC contractor to protect you from financial damages caused by third parties, property damages, and bodily injuries resulting from the HVAC contractor's work.

Hence, before you hire an HVAC contractor in Lincoln, confirm that they carry appropriate general liability insurance and that it is adequate to cover the scope of your project. Contact the Department of Building and Safety at (402) 441-7521 for more information on Lincoln's insurance requirements.

Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your HVAC Work in Lincoln?

Many reputable HVAC professionals offer their customers warranties for their services and materials. You should never hire a contractor who refuses to provide warranties.

Commonly, HVAC warranties cover the contractor's work for one to two years and the materials they use for the project for five to ten years. However, the exact terms of the warranty will vary depending on the type of materials used and the HVAC contractor. Therefore, you should ask for a copy of any warranty you are offered to review its terms carefully.