Hiring an HVAC Contractor in BC: Certifications and Permits
BC tightened its rules for heating and cooling trades in 2023. Here's what to look for when you hire someone to work on your home's heating or cooling.
Request an HVAC technicianSkilled Trades Certification
Since December 1, 2023, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, gasfitters and sheet metal workers in BC need Skilled Trades Certification, or must be registered apprentices. That covers most heat pump, gas and ductwork jobs.
Gas work
Gas furnaces, boilers, fireplaces and gas lines must be worked on by a certified gasfitter employed by a contractor licensed by Technical Safety BC, and most gas work needs a permit.
Electrical work
Heat pumps need new circuits and sometimes a panel upgrade. Electrical work needs a licensed electrical contractor and a permit.
Insurance and WorkSafeBC
Ask for proof of liability insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage before work starts.
Get it in writing
Ask for a written quote showing the equipment model, capacity, warranty, permits, removal of old equipment and the start date. If you're applying for a rebate, confirm the contractor meets the program's requirements.
Keep the paperwork
Keep invoices, permits and warranty registration. They matter for warranty claims, rebates, insurance and resale. See how this site works.
Questions worth asking
Who will do the work, and are they certified or registered apprentices? Did you do a heat-loss calculation, and can I see it? How will the system perform at the coldest temperatures here? Who arranges the gas and electrical permits? What does the warranty cover, and is registration required? How are unexpected problems priced and approved before work continues?
Red flags
Sizing by square footage alone, pressure to sign the same day, no business details on the quote, or an offer to skip the permits to save money.
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