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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid HVAC Scams in Marshall

HVAC scams can leave you sweating and broke, especially during Texas heat waves. Spot the tricks, verify pros, and keep your cool in Marshall. Here's your simple guide to staying safe.

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Common HVAC Services Scams in Marshall

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Upfront Payment Grab

Scammer says 'urgent part needed' and demands full cash/wire/gift card payment before any work.

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Fake Emergency Freon Scare

Claims your AC is 'leaking Freon' (illegal to handle casually) and pushes expensive refill or replacement.

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Bait-and-Switch Repair

Quotes cheap tune-up, then 'discovers' major issues needing full system replacement at huge cost.

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Unnecessary Duct Cleaning

Sells 'health risk' duct cleaning with fake before/after photos; often does nothing.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for general liability ($500k+ recommended) and workers' comp. Call the insurer listed to verify it's current—no fakes.

2

Licensing

Texas requires HVAC contractors to hold a TDLR Air Conditioning and Refrigeration license. Search the free TDLR License Lookup by name or license number. Confirm it's active and matches the scope (Class A/B).

3

References

Request 3 recent references from Marshall or Harrison County jobs. Call them yourself: ask about work quality, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd rehire.

Protection FAQs

How do I check HVAC licensing in Texas?

Use the TDLR License Search. Enter contractor name or license #. Ensure it's active for Air Conditioning/Refrigeration.

Is it normal to pay upfront for HVAC work?

Small deposits (10-20%) ok for parts. Never full payment or wire transfers before work starts. Pay after satisfaction.

What insurance should HVAC pros have?

General liability ($1M+ ideal) and workers' comp. Get COI and verify with insurer—protects you from accidents/damages.

How can I spot fake HVAC reviews?

Look for patterns: all 5-stars, generic text, new accounts. Check Google/BBB/Angi for balanced, detailed local reviews.

What if the HVAC guy won't give references?

Red flag—move on. Legit pros have happy Marshall customers happy to vouch.

I think I got scammed—what now?

Contact Harrison County Sheriff's Office or TX AG. Dispute charges with credit card/bank. Report to TDLR for license action.

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