New law requires inspection for HVAC installation

Contractors who install heating and cooling units face more red tape, thanks to a state law that went into effect Jan. 1.

They are now required to apply for HVAC permits and have those installations inspected.

The law requiring the Division of HVAC to establish a permitting and inspection program was passed in April 2008. The act required the program be in place by Jan. 1, 2011.

The new regulations cover all initial installations of HVAC systems in commercial buildings, single family and multi-family buildings.

Inspections are not required for replacement units, but are available to those who request them through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction.

Permits for homes begin at $75. Commercial project permits will be based on the total dollar value of the project.

It’s the responsibility of the permit holder (contractor) to request the inspection of the heating or cooling units. Homeowner permits are also available for replacement units.

LaRue County is in Region 2 which also includes Green, Taylor, Marion, Washington Counties and half of Hardin County.

The regional supervisor is Steve New who can be reached at 502-229-1799 or steven.new@ky.gov.

The regional HVAC inspector is Don Davis who can be reached at 270-589-0570 or don.davis@ky.gov.

Names of licensed contractors are available at https://hbc.ky.gov/licensing/electrical/license_lookup.asp.