Installing a heat pump is an important investment. Yet many consumers in Quebec do not know how to read a quote correctly or ask the right questions.

Result: inflated prices, non-compliant work, non-existent or minimalist guarantees...

In our article, discover the essential elements to check in a quote, the questions to ask, and the ways to ensure that you pay the fair price.

✅ 1. Check company certifications

A professional quote must mention the licenses RBQ and CMMTQ. These certifications are mandatory for any contractor specializing in heating and air conditioning in Quebec. They ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with provincial safety and performance standards.

📌 In a quote provided by Air Conditioning Express, the RBQ and CMMTQ numbers will always be clearly indicated, which is a sign of our compliance.

💬 2. Ask the right questions

Before signing, ask:

• Who installs the equipment? Is he a certified technician? Are his licenses up to date?
• What guarantees are included? (compressor, parts, labour)
• What are the warranty periods for each installed equipment? (compressor, parts, labour)
• Are installed equipment eligible for energy-efficient subsidies?
• Are subsidies covered in the price of equipment on the estimate? (Hydro-Québec, federal, provincial)
• Is there support from the company for obtaining accessible grants? (Hydro-Québec, federal, provincial)
• How to claim subsidies, if any?
• Are cleaning and commissioning included in the estimate?
• What would be the cost of a post-installation maintenance program?
• What are the guarantees of a maintenance programme?

💰 3. Evaluate the right price

A low estimate can hide extra costs or a sloppy job. A too high estimate can be inflated without justification. How to assess:

• Compare with 3 different submissions
• Check AHRI models and approvals proposed units
• Make sure that the materials and labour are included
• See sources like The Consumer Protection Office to know your rights

📌 The Air Conditioning Express estimate includes materials, labour, testing, commissioning and even support for grants. This is an example of transparency.

⚠️ 4. Attention to hidden costs

• Some quotes do not include cleaning or post-installation explanations
• Check whether funding is being offered and under what conditions

🛡️ 5. Request a signed quote

A quote signed by both parties is a legal evidence. It must include:

• The name of the customer and the company
• Date
• Technical details
• The total price with taxes
• Guarantee conditions