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Point 5 of 6 · Strathfield

From quote to installation in NSW

NSW Climate and Energy Action sets out the order: get several quotes from licensed installers, choose the model and size with their help, complete any incentive paperwork before work begins, then have a licensed technician install the system. Afterwards the installer has you sign a declaration that the installation meets requirements, and takes photos of the finished work.

General information, not legal advice. NSW Climate and Energy Action’s pages, linked at the foot of this page, are the official place to check, and NSW Fair Trading handles disputes about work you contracted for.

Six stages, in order

  1. Quotes

    • NSW suggests getting multiple quotes from licensed and accredited installers, and choosing an installer by reading reviews and asking friends and family for recommendations.
    • Check that each tradesperson holds a valid licence on the NSW Government’s Contractor and Tradespeople Register. The guide to NSW licences for air conditioning work explains which licence covers what.
    • If you want the Energy Savings Scheme discount, ask each installer whether they offer it, and make sure the discount is included in the quote.

  2. Choosing the system

    • Choose the right size, in kW of capacity, for the room or the home; NSW notes that your installer can help you choose.
    • NSW suggests at least 3 stars on the Energy Rating Label. Between two models with the same stars and capacity, it suggests the one with the lowest annual energy use in kWh, which will cost least to run.
    • Not all models are eligible for the incentive, and eligible models of the same size do not all receive the same discount.

  3. Paperwork before work starts

    • For the incentive, the installer gives you a nomination form to sign and return, and a quote to agree to that details the work, the discount and the total cost.
    • The nomination form must be completed before installation begins; NSW says you won’t be reimbursed for work already completed.
    • You may also be asked for documents that prove you are eligible.

  4. Installation day

    • NSW advises using licensed air conditioning and refrigeration technicians for installation, for the sake of safety, compliance and warranty cover.
    • Agree with your installer where the indoor and outdoor units will sit.
    • Under the incentive, a licensed technician from the installer installs the system, shows you how to use it, and safely disposes of or recycles your old air conditioner if you are replacing one.

  5. Afterwards

    • The installer has you sign a declaration confirming the installation meets requirements, and photographs the completed work as proof. Under the incentive this is called a Post Implementation Declaration.
    • If an electrician does electrical work as part of the job, NSW says they must lodge a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW) with Building Commission NSW, confirming the work has been tested and complies with regulations. NSW Fair Trading says a CCEW is often needed for warranty purposes, and you can ask the electrician for a copy.
    • If you are replacing a unit outside the incentive, NSW still suggests recycling the old one: ask your retailer, or find local drop-off and pick-up points.

  6. If something goes wrong

    • Under the incentive, start with your installer, or with the Accredited Certificate Provider named on the nomination form you signed.
    • Questions about the air conditioner’s warranty go to the system’s manufacturer.
    • If you can’t resolve matters about the work you contracted for, NSW Fair Trading may help, and complaints about unlicensed work or licensing matters may be referred to Building Commission NSW.
    • Concerns about an Accredited Certificate Provider’s conduct go to IPART, the incentive’s administrator.

Behind all of it, NSW reminds buyers that consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law protect basic rights when buying a product or service.

If you rent

NSW Climate and Energy Action suggests renters ask their landlord about upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioner.

The Australian Government’s energy.gov.au notes that repairs, servicing or maintenance, including most energy efficiency improvements, usually need your landlord’s permission, and that every state and territory has different laws for tenants. It suggests putting requests to your landlord or agent in writing and keeping a record of what is agreed.

For electrical problems, NSW Fair Trading says renters should report them to the landlord or managing agent immediately, because landlords have a legal obligation to keep electrical installations and fittings on their property in safe order.

For the discount itself, and the loans NSW lists, see NSW energy schemes for air conditioners.

The first step is the one NSW stresses most: compare quotes from more than one licensed installer. An installer who has seen your home can advise on the right size and the best spot for the units.