As a homeowner, you probably only expect to pull building permits when you’re engaging in a major home improvement project. So, you may be surprised to hear that you might need one for projects like installing a new AC unit.
So, what’s the truth? Do you need a permit to install an AC unit in Texas? As the ultimate AC repair services provider in Flower Mound, TX, we receive this question regularly here at Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing & Heating.
The reality is you do need a permit to install an AC unit. The regulators rate air conditioner installation or replacement as a major home improvement project so installing your new or replacement unit without a permit is illegal.
Why Do You Need a Permit to Install an AC Unit in Texas?
You need a permit for your AC installation project for the following reasons:
Safety
You need a permit for any home improvement project that involves altering the building’s structure or use. This covers the installation of HVAC systems. The permit will ensure that your contractors will do the installation or replacement work safely and correctly, following all local building codes and city ordinances.
Documentation
Building permits will also provide a paper trail that breaks down all the work that was done during the air conditioning installation project. The documentation will be valuable if you ever list your home on the market down the line.
Adherence to Energy Efficiency Requirements
During the process of securing the permits, the local authorities will confirm that the air conditioning unit you’ve chosen meets the federal requirement for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings.
It’s not enough to choose an air conditioning unit that you believe is big enough to combat the Texas heat. It must have a minimum SEER rating of 14 to ensure it’s energy efficient.
What Happens If You Install Your AC Without a Permit in Texas?
Do you need a permit to install an AC unit in Texas? Yes. Can you install one without a permit? Yes, you can. However, that would be illegal. Here are some of the things that might also happen in that scenario.
You Can’t Confirm the Accuracy of Your Equipment’s Ratings
Your HVAC installer telling you that your new air conditioner is highly efficient and has a high SEER rating of 20 or whatever number they come up with doesn’t mean it’s true. If you don’t know how to accurately verify the SEER rating of an air conditioner, you’re better off allowing the building permit inspectors to do the job for you.
Otherwise, you may end up using an air conditioner that will quickly become a drain on your pocket. Remember, an air conditioner accounts for 70% of the energy usage in your home!
You May Hand Your Money to an Unlicensed Contractor
Only HVAC contractor licensed to operate in Texas can apply for building permits before installing an air conditioner. If you skip the permit process, there’s no way to confirm that you’re not working with an unlicensed contractor who will take shortcuts or scam you.
Unfortunately, there’s no recourse if you ever become the victim of an unlicensed contractor. You may end up spending money again to deal with any problems you may have found yourself in by working with such a contractor.
You May Incur Fees and Fines
If code enforcement agents learn that you have installed an air conditioner without a permit, you may be hit with a fine which means expensive fees and penalties you must pay to avoid having legal proceedings opened against you.
You May Have Issues Selling Your Home
Are you planning on selling your home sometime down the line? The air conditioner you installed without a permit can hold up the sale. Most home inspectors will see you completed the installation without a permit and will mandate you to get all the relevant permits and inspections sorted before you transfer ownership of the property.
Get AC Installation Service From Licensed and Approved Professionals in Texas
Now that you know the answer to “Do you need a permit to install an AC unit in Texas?” you’ll want to work with a licensed contractor who can pull all the necessary permits for your AC installation project. That’s us!
We have years of experience working in the area, so we know all the permits necessary and the pros and cons of installing a ductless mini-split system.
Call Triple A AC, Heating, & Plumbing & Heating in Flower Mound, TX, today at (469) 731-8704 to schedule a consultation.