How do you choose the best service provider for AC repair in NYC? Look for the qualities luxury property managers value most. Luxury homeowners have exacting standards, and the stakes are high for getting things right, especially when you’re talking about properties valued at $5 to $10 million and more.
For many years, Arista has served the needs of elite homeowners in the most exclusive residential buildings in Manhattan. We know these managers well, and here’s what they tell us is most important to them.
8 ways to spot quality AC repair in NYC
To evaluate a company for air conditioner repair in NYC, here’s what to look for when you interview the company and talk to your neighbors or the company’s references.
1. Presence in your neighborhood
If you’re in an elite NYC residential area, such as Central Park West or Park Avenue, look for company’s trucks in your neighborhood, and even outside your building. If you see them regularly, that’s a great sign that the company has experience with luxury residences like yours, and has many satisfied customers in the area.
It also means you’re likely to get quick service in an emergency, since the company is likely to have technicians nearby.
2. Commercial expertise
This one may be a surprise. Why should a homeowner want a commercial HVAC contractor? It’s because many luxury residential properties have commercial-type equipment to meet high-end requirements. You need a service provider who has experience with the most sophisticated equipment.
3. Reliability
Property managers have a lot on their plate. They don’t have time to wait around for a service company to show up hours late. Getting there fast in an emergency and showing up when promised is essential.
Of course, unavoidable things happen in NYC that may occasionally cause delays. But delays should be the exception rather than the norm for a quality NYC HVAC repair company.
4. Fixing it right the first time
One of the biggest complaints from property managers about AC repair in NYC is companies with inexperienced technicians who don’t fix the problem properly. Or don’t have the parts to fix common problems on the spot. Getting there fast isn’t helpful when the technician fails to correctly diagnose and repair the equipment during the initial service visit.
Certainly there will be times when a technician needs to make a return visit to complete a major repair. But again, that should be the exception. Look for a company with a low rate of return visits for the same problem, and highly trained and experienced technicians who can reliably diagnose and repair many types of systems and problems.
5. Clear communication
It’s frustrating to leave messages and wait days for a callback when you have a problem with your AC. That’s why it’s smart to look for a company that makes it easy to schedule appointments, ideally with a live person who answers the phone and sets you up with an appointment right away.
Also, it’s super helpful when the company keeps you up to date with messages about arrival times and status of your repair visit.
6. Respect for luxury property
An important priority for luxury properties is avoiding damage. Luxury homes have furnishings and finishes that are worth a fortune, and sometimes are irreplaceable. You want to be very sure that anyone you hire to work in your home will take extreme care to prevent damage, not cause disruption in the building, and leave things spotless.
And of course, they must be adequately insured to work in high-value properties.
7. Understanding the needs of luxury property owners
Controlling the temperature is only the first step in proper comfort management for a luxury residence. A company that works with elite homeowners regularly knows to ask about other comfort issues, such as humidity control and indoor air quality, and can recommend and install more complete solutions.
8. Experience with NYC buildings
NYC’s elite residences can be found in many different types of buildings, including highrises, historic buildings, and brownstone townhouses. These buildings are very different in terms of the challenges to heat and cool them, the best types of equipment to use, and the complexity of making AC repairs.
That’s why it’s important to choose a service provider that has expertise in the type of NYC building you live in.
Trust Arista’s ELITE residential service for quality AC repair in NYC
Need service for your ELITE residence? Find out why NYC’s highest value homeowners and property managers trust Arista.