Many HVAC jobs will require a permit. And as an HVAC contractor, you need to know when they’re needed, and how to go about obtaining permits for HVAC jobs. Below we discuss what permits are and their importance.
What are Permits?
Permits are issued by the local government. They are permitted to alter, move, or add a structure to a property. Some types of permits issued for permanent structures but are not limited to are:
- HVAC Heating and Cooling Units
- HVAC duct systems
- Room additions
What is an Inspection?
Inspection(s):
- Ensures that the work has been completed and follows all local and state building codes. Learn more about codes here.
- Meets all manufacturer specifications.
- Completed by a third party from the local municipality.
- Inspectors are there to inspect the permitted job. However, they will assess, and report any findings they see that concede to a life/health and safety code violation.
- Inspection fees are typically covered under the “permit fees.” However, if any corrections need to be corrected, this may require an additional inspection that is not covered by the original inspection fee.
- HVAC Inspections should be carried out and completed within 90 days of the work that is being performed.
Why do we need Inspections and/or permits?
- To protect the homeowner/and the Contractor.
What are some reasons that a Contractor would NOT pull a permit?
- They are not licensed.
- It costs more time and money.
- They are afraid that they have completed subpar work.
What are some consequences that can happen if a permit is NOT pulled?
Safety concerns
- HVAC equipment can be dangerous if installed improperly and can cause life/health safety issues.
- Gas furnaces have combustible gases that if installed improperly can cause carbon monoxide leaks that in turn will have adverse effects.
- Inspectors can catch life health safety issues that can arise.
Quality of the Installation
- Improper installation will impact the homeowner/customer’s comfort.
- Waste of energy.
- Pre-mature breakdowns pre-mature life expectancy of the equipment.
- Ultimately, poor installations or the quality of the initial installation robs the homeowner of a very large investment. The homeowner deserves to get the most out of their money.
- Proper installations ensure the longevity of the equipment. Proper installations ultimately should have a 15–20-year equipment life span, while a poor installation reduces that time frame tremendously.
Legal repercussions
- Having a permit allows you to make permanent changes to your home properly. Not having a permit can interrupt the sale of your home, and at the very least can postpone the sale until all permits are retrieved and finalized.
Motili’s Involvement with Obtaining Permits for HVAC Jobs
Motili takes pride in the work performed for our clients. The installation’s cost includes not only the labor and material but also quality and reassurance that the installation is completed to code and compliance requirements.
All installations are backed by municipal regulations and an internal quality assurance review by our in-house controls. Our technicians are licensed and will pull all required permits (if applicable per municipal standards), then call for the final municipal inspection once the installation is complete.
Simultaneously, our in-house Technical Training and Design team will review each installation to ensure all Motili Standards have been met. Lastly, Motili will offer a 1-year labor warranty on the installation, coupled with the manufacturer’s 5-year limited warranty. g
