Air conditioning installation: survey to handover

Prepare for the survey

Make a list of rooms, approximate dimensions and the times they are used. Explain whether heating is part of the brief. Photograph possible indoor and outdoor positions, and tell the installer about access restrictions, planned building work or existing equipment.

For flats, rented homes and buildings with restrictions, establish who can approve the proposed changes. Ask the installer to identify any permissions needed for the chosen design and confirm responsibility before work starts.

Agree the route and the finish

Walk through the pipework and drainage route. Confirm the colour and position of visible trunking, any wall penetrations, outdoor supports and the power supply. Ask whether a condensate pump is needed and where it would be maintained.

Record who deals with scaffolding, electrical work, making good and decoration. A marked photograph or simple drawing can prevent misunderstandings about the final appearance. If the installer finds something unexpected, agree how extra work will be quoted before it proceeds.

Get the home ready

Clear the working area around each agreed unit position and arrange access to the electrical supply. Discuss working hours, parking, dust protection and where tools or removed equipment will be placed. Keep children and pets away from the work area.

Ask for an expected programme based on your actual installation. The number of units, building access and electrical work can change how long the job takes. Arrange any separate trades with the installer so work happens in the right order.

Check the handover before signing off

Ask the installer to show the system working, explain normal operation and leave the paperwork in a form you can keep.

• Model and serial numbers for the installed equipment.
• Commissioning information and any relevant electrical documentation.
• Demonstration of cooling, heating where included, timers and controls.
• Filter access and the maintenance schedule for your model.
• Warranty terms, registration and who to call if there is a fault.
• A final invoice matching the agreed scope and any approved changes.

Choose the right installer

For systems containing F-gas, check the company certification and the qualifications relevant to the work. The government’s certification guidance explains the approved company certification routes. Ask for details you can check, alongside insurance and examples of similar domestic installations.