New Jersey contractor license lookup: how to check an HVAC contractor (Division of Consumer Affairs)

The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs runs an online License Verification System. The Division describes it as a real-time system with access to the most current professional license information. It is free to use.

1. Ask the contractor two questions: what is the license number, and whose name is on the license. In New Jersey a license may be held by an individual who qualifies the business, so you need both answers.
2. Open the License Verification System listed in the sources below.
3. Choose the search type. Person Search covers licenses issued to individuals. Business Search covers licenses issued to businesses.
4. Select the profession and enter the name or license number, then run the search.
5. Open the record and compare it with the quote and contract you were given.

The Division notes that the site is intended for verification only. It confirms what the state has on file. It does not rate or recommend contractors.

• Name. The person or business on the record should be the one named on your quote, or the contractor should explain in writing how the license holder is tied to the company.
• License type. The record should show a license for heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration work. A license for a different trade does not cover a furnace or AC replacement.
• Status and expiration. Look for a current, active license. If it is expired or suspended, stop there.
• Discipline. Read any action or note attached to the record.

If you cannot find the contractor, try the other search type before you assume the worst, since an individual's license will not appear in a business search. If neither search finds it, call the Division of Consumer Affairs and ask.

Verification answers one question: does this license exist and is it in good standing. It does not tell you whether the furnace is sized correctly, whether the price is fair, or whether the crew that shows up is supervised by the license holder.

Cover those yourself. Get written quotes for the same scope from more than one licensed contractor. Ask for a certificate of liability insurance sent by the insurer or agent. Ask who will be on site and who pulls the permit. For how this site connects readers with contractors, see how contractor matching works.

Ask the contractor to confirm what your town requires and to include the permit in the price.

• No license number on the quote, or reluctance to say whose name is on the license.
• A license record for an unrelated trade.
• An offer to skip the permit or to have you pull it yourself.
• A large cash deposit demanded before equipment is ordered.