Pro Tips for Avoiding Air Duct Cleaning Scams

By Mark Zarzeczny, Chair of NADCA’s Anti-Fraud Task Force

1. Avoid bait-and-switch tactics. If they advertise for $79 and tell you it will be $1,200 when they arrive, something is wrong.

2. Don't rely on an instant mold test or let them convince you to do work that costs hundreds or thousands of dollars that they can fix within a few hours.

3. Research online reviews regarding the company and its services.

4. The company must have proof of insurance.      

5. Some States require licensing. If yours does, make sure the company can provide you with a copy.

6. Duct cleaning, when done properly, cannot be performed quickly in most cases. Can they show you proof they are doing what you contracted them to do?

7. Avoid the application of unnecessary chemicals. If they are required, the company should have the labeled container and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide all information about the chemical. Most important, the chemical information must state that it can be used in your HVAC system.

8. Avoid outrageous claims such as the cleaning will cure disease or give you a dust free home. Many other sources are present in a home that cause dust.

9. Remember, the ductwork in your home is the lungs of your home. Would you rely on outrageous claims and a low price to fix your lungs? If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.