Furnace Fraud - Beware of HVAC Installers Using Bait and Switch Tactics

While not a prevalent practice in the upper midwest, unscrupulous HVAC installers have been known to use one of two techniques in defrauding unsuspecting homeowners. One is using a bait and switch technique, the other is taking a down payment on the job and then skipping town.

In an article distributed in the 'The Register Citizen', Viktoria Sundqvist writes:

"Two types of fraud we often see involve companies who take the money and run," said Jordan Tandy, spokesman for Internet network Angie's List. "Some service providers take a deposit, but never complete or start a job."
The second fraud type that is very common is the bait-and-switch tactic, Tandy said.
"They'll sell the (customer) an item, such as a furnace, but install a different one without the (customer's) approval," Tandy said.
Contracting fraud occurs if a person obtains money by false pretense, acts as a contractor without a contractor's license and misapplies money..."

This is why we strongly recommend a 3 step approach:
1.) contact the Better Business Bureau to learn of any complaints and how they were resolved.
2.) Check with your states Secretary of State office to determine if they have a legal business.
3.) Ask for references and contact at least three of them.

If you live in Minnesota you can take the easy way out when looking for a heating and cooling contractor. Simply call 651-653-4704 and you will be connected with a reputable company that has been a leader in the HVAC industry since 1991.