Is Your HVAC Company Licensed? Here’s Why It Matters

There are Risks You Can’t See

Your air conditioning system is one of the most expensive and complex systems in your home. It keeps your family safe in extreme heat, regulates indoor air quality, and directly affects your energy bills. So why do so many homeowners take a gamble by hiring unlicensed HVAC contractors?

It usually comes down to price. An unlicensed technician might promise to beat the competition by a few hundred dollars. But what they don’t mention is the cost of cut corners, improper installations, or the fact that if something goes wrong, you’re on your own.

At Allegiance Heating and Air, we see the aftermath of these choices all too often: failed inspections, voided warranties, code violations, and systems that stop working months after installation. In this article, we’ll walk you through why hiring a licensed HVAC company isn’t just the safer bet—it’s the smarter investment.

What Licensing Means in the HVAC Industry

When you hire a licensed local HVAC company, you're hiring professionals who have met strict state requirements for education, testing, and hands-on training. In California, that means:

• Holding a C-20 license for warm-air heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning

• Passing a criminal background check

• Carrying general liability insurance and a contractor's bond

• Meeting local and state building codes and safety regulations

Licensed companies are also accountable to regulatory boards. If something goes wrong, there’s a process for recourse. Unlicensed contractors, on the other hand, operate without oversight—and if they disappear, you have no legal backup.

Most importantly, licensed professionals are required to pull permits for major work. This ensures that installations and replacements are inspected and meet code. Skipping this step might save time upfront, but it can cost you later when selling your home or filing a warranty claim.

How to Verify a Contractor’s License

Before signing any contract or agreeing to service, take five minutes to verify the license. Here’s how:

1. Visit the CSLB (Contractors State License Board) website: www.cslb.ca.gov

2. Click on “Check a License or HIS Registration”

3. Enter the contractor’s license number or business name

You’ll see:

• License status (active, suspended, expired)

• Class of license (C-20 for HVAC)

• Bond and insurance status

• Complaints or disciplinary actions

You can also ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' comp. Any reputable HVAC company will provide this without hesitation.

What Can Go Wrong with an Unlicensed Contractor?

When homeowners cut corners on licensing, they often pay more in the end. Here are some common consequences:

• Code violations: Installations that don’t meet code can cause failed inspections and delays in selling your home.

• Warranty voiding: Most manufacturers won’t honor warranties if the unit wasn’t installed by a licensed contractor.

• Improper sizing: A too-large or too-small system leads to inefficiency, uneven temperatures, and frequent breakdowns.

• Electrical hazards: Improper wiring or skipped safety protocols can pose serious fire risks.

• No accountability: If something goes wrong, unlicensed contractors often can’t be found again—and you’re stuck paying for repairs.

In short, you might save a little upfront, but the risks are high. When your family's comfort, health, and home value are on the line, it's not worth it.

Why Allegiance is a Licensed HVAC Company You Can Trust

At Allegiance Heating and Air, we believe in doing things right the first time. That means staying licensed and insured—always. Our technicians undergo continuous training to stay current on best practices, efficiency standards, and safety protocols.

When you work with us, you get:

• Proper permits for major installs

• Fully insured service that protects your property

• Upfront pricing with no surprises

• Warrantied labor and equipment from trusted manufacturers

• Peace of mind knowing your HVAC system meets all local codes

We don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in quality work, licensed professionals, and long-term customer relationships.

Quality Work Starts with Qualifications

The person you let into your home should be qualified to do the job right—not just today, but for years to come. Licensing isn’t just paperwork. It’s proof of accountability, professionalism, and a commitment to your safety.

If you're not sure whether the contractor you're considering is licensed, check. And if you want a second opinion or a quote from a licensed HVAC company in San Diego, Allegiance offers free estimates with no pressure and no gimmicks.

See our Specials Page for seasonal discounts, and protect your home by choosing a contractor who stands behind their work—every time.