Summary
Operating as a licensed HVAC contractor in Savannah requires obtaining a Georgia state Conditioned Air Contractor license through the GCILB, which involves 4 years of experience, passing exams, and maintaining continuing education. Contractors must also secure local business licenses from the City of Savannah and obtain permits for all HVAC work from either Chatham County or city building departments, depending on location. The permit process is relatively straightforward with reasonable fees and quick turnaround times for most residential work. Insurance requirements include general liability coverage and workers' compensation for larger operations, along with a state-required surety bond. The Savannah market offers steady opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors, with pricing that reflects the area's moderate cost structure and specific needs related to the coastal climate and humidity control requirements.
License Requirements
HVAC contractors in Georgia must obtain a state license through the Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board (GCILB). A Conditioned Air Contractor license is required for HVAC work. Applicants must have 4 years of experience, pass a business law exam and trade-specific exam, and pay $250 in fees. The license must be renewed every 2 years with 6 hours of continuing education. Local business licenses are also required from the City of Savannah Business License Division.
Permit Requirements
All HVAC installations, replacements, and major repairs require permits from Chatham County Building Inspections Department or City of Savannah Development Services (depending on jurisdiction). Permit applications require system specifications, load calculations, and ductwork plans. Residential permits typically cost $50-150, commercial permits $100-500. Plan review takes 3-5 business days. Required inspections include rough-in, ductwork, and final. Same-day permits available for simple replacements.
Insurance Requirements
Georgia requires minimum $100,000 general liability insurance for licensed HVAC contractors. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for contractors with 3+ employees, with rates typically 2-4% of payroll for HVAC work. Chatham County may require additional coverage for public works projects. A $10,000 surety bond is required for state licensing. Some municipalities require proof of insurance before permit issuance.
Typical Cost Ranges
Residential HVAC unit replacement: $3,500-8,000. Ductwork installation: $3,000-7,000. Commercial rooftop unit installation: $8,000-25,000. HVAC system maintenance contracts: $150-400 annually. Emergency repair calls: $150-500. New construction HVAC systems: $6,000-15,000 residential, $15,000-50,000+ commercial. Prices reflect Savannah's moderate cost market and coastal climate considerations.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor license from GCILB
- ✓Secure City of Savannah business license and any required local permits
- ✓Purchase minimum $100,000 general liability insurance and workers' comp if applicable
- ✓Post required $10,000 surety bond with state licensing board
- ✓Register with Georgia Department of Revenue for tax purposes
- ✓Obtain proper permits from Chatham County or City of Savannah before starting work
- ✓Schedule required inspections (rough-in, ductwork, final) with local building department
- ✓Maintain current EPA certifications for refrigerant handling
READYDOCS
These are the documents Iris tracks for you.
Store them in one place. Get alerts before anything expires. Ask Iris anything from the job site.
$19/month — First month free. No credit card required.
No credit card. Cancel anytime.