Here are some things to consider before hiring an unlicensed person:
- Don’t do It, it is against Georgia State law for an unlicensed person to seek contracts in
HVAC installations without a state license. - There is a definite danger factor, gas units have a carbon monoxide byproduct that must
be vented properly. - Licensed HVAC contractors are trained to wire their units to the electrical system,
unlicensed persons may not be. - The equipment manufacturer may not honor the warranty of the equipment if there is a
problem. - The unlicensed person or firm may not be trained by the manufacturer to install that
type of sophisticated, computerized equipment. - The unlicensed person or firm is not qualified to design the proper system for your
home. - If there is an insurance claim involved, the insurance company may not cover it.
- The person or firm may not be in business tomorrow to stand behind the work.
- Licensed contractors are required to carry liability insurance, the unlicensed person or
firm is not. If they are injured on your property or their installation causes damage, you
could be held liable! - The unlicensed person or firm is not required to have continuing education and is not up
to date on current code, laws, and manufacturers installation instructions. - An unlicensed person or firm cannot obtain the permits required by law.
I could probably list reasons all day, but I think at this point you can see the dangers of hiring
unqualified, unlicensed persons to do your HVAC work. Always, always check that the people
you hire have the proper license and insurance.
Mark Mitchell, Chief Building Official
mmitchell@peachtreecornersga.gov
