Consumer Protection
& Rights
The HVAC industry has a trust problem — and Texas homeowners pay for it with overpriced equipment, unnecessary repairs, and work that fails prematurely. This section provides the information the industry doesn't want you to have.
Common HVAC Scams in Texas
Know the tactics so you can protect yourself.
The 'Free Inspection' Upsell
Company offers free inspection, then 'discovers' serious problems requiring expensive repairs or immediate replacement.
Red Flags:
- Unsolicited door-to-door offers
- 'Dangerous' conditions found (refrigerant leaks, cracked heat exchangers)
- High-pressure tactics ('I can't leave this running')
- Deep discounts for same-day decisions
The 'Refrigerant Is Low' Scam
Technician claims refrigerant is low and offers to 'top it off' for $150-$400. Refrigerant doesn't evaporate — low means there's a leak.
Red Flags:
- No leak detection performed
- 'Topping off' without fixing leak
- No explanation of why it's low
- Charging premium prices for R-22
The Fake 'Code Violation'
Technician claims your system violates building codes and must be brought into compliance immediately.
Red Flags:
- Existing systems are typically grandfathered
- Current codes apply to new installations
- Pressure to decide immediately
- No documentation provided
The Oversized Replacement
Contractor recommends larger replacement unit than necessary, charging more for equipment you don't need.
Red Flags:
- 'You need more tonnage because Texas is hot'
- No load calculation performed
- Quote without measuring home
- Significantly exceeds existing system size
Reality Check
Legitimate issues exist, but catastrophic failures are rare. Get a second opinion before any repair over $500 or any replacement recommendation.
Verifying Contractor Credentials
Texas requires HVAC contractors to hold an ACR (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) Contractor License from TDLR.
License Types
| License Class | Scope |
|---|---|
| Class A | Environmental air conditioning (comfort cooling) |
| Class B | Commercial refrigeration and process cooling |
Most residential work requires Class A.
How to Verify
TDLR License Search:
tdlr.texas.gov/LicenseSearchWhat to check:
- • License is active (not expired, suspended, revoked)
- • License type matches work being performed
- • Name/company matches who's doing the work
Insurance Verification
Request certificates of insurance for:
$500,000+ recommended
Required if company has employees
Why it matters: If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you may be liable. If damage occurs without liability coverage, you have no recourse.
Permit Requirements
Permits Required For:
- New HVAC system installation
- System replacement (change-out)
- Major modifications
- Ductwork installation/major modification
Permits NOT Required For:
- Repairs to existing equipment
- Routine maintenance
- Thermostat replacement
- Filter changes
The "We Don't Pull Permits" Red Flag
Some contractors offer lower prices by skipping permits. This creates risk for you:
- No third-party inspection
- Potential insurance issues
- Problems at home sale
- Contractor likely cutting other corners
Getting Fair Quotes
Equipment Details
- Manufacturer and model numbers
- Efficiency ratings (SEER2, HSPF2)
- Capacity (tonnage)
- Features (single-stage, two-stage, variable-speed)
Installation Scope
- What's included (pad, disconnect, refrigerant lines, thermostat)
- What's NOT included
- Permit fees
- Warranty information
Timeline and Terms
- Start and completion dates
- Payment schedule
- Change order process
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- 1. "Are you licensed and insured? Can I verify?"
- 2. "How did you determine the size I need?"
- 3. "Will you pull a permit for this work?"
- 4. "What's included in the warranty? What's excluded?"
- 5. "Who performs the installation — your employees or subcontractors?"
When Work Goes Wrong
Escalation Path
- 1 Contact the contractor
Give them opportunity to correct. Many issues are miscommunication.
- 2 File TDLR complaint
tdlr.texas.gov/complaints — include license number and documentation.
- 3 Contact BBB
Complaints become public record and affect company reputation.
- 4 Small claims court
For damages up to $20,000. Fast, affordable resolution.
- 5 Consult an attorney
For larger claims or complex situations.
Document Everything
- Photograph all issues
- Keep all invoices and contracts
- Document communications (email preferred)
- Note dates and descriptions
- Keep records of additional costs
Articles in This Section
HVAC Scams in Texas — What to Watch For
Identify and avoid common HVAC scams
How to Verify a Texas HVAC Contractor
Step-by-step license and insurance verification
Getting Fair HVAC Quotes
What to look for and how to compare
Texas HVAC Permit Requirements
When permits are required and why they matter
Your Rights When HVAC Work Goes Wrong
Escalation paths and legal options
Home Warranty HVAC Coverage — The Truth
What home warranties actually cover
Consumer Protection FAQ
Common questions about protecting yourself when buying HVAC services
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