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How to Pick an HVAC Contractor in LA Without Getting Burned
10 questions to ask before signing, including the one most homeowners forget.
January 8, 2026 6 min read
The 10 questions
1) What's your CSLB license number? (Verify at cslb.ca.gov.) 2) Are your installers W-2 employees or day-labor subs? 3) Will you do a Manual J load calculation? 4) Can I see references from this neighborhood? 5) What's your warranty on labor?
6) Will you pull the permit? 7) Do you handle the LADWP rebate paperwork? 8) Is the quote itemized? 9) What financing options? 10) What happens if the new system has issues in year one?
The one most homeowners forget
#10. Find out exactly what the contractor's response time is for warranty issues, and whether they charge a service fee for warranty visits. Some companies disappear after install. Ask for it in writing.