Certified Building Contractor CBC1265305 · AC & Heating
An AC change-out, permitted and closed out
AC and heating service in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. We run the project; our Florida-licensed air-conditioning subcontractors do the AC work and pull the permit for change-outs and new systems.
What the job covers
In South Florida the AC runs most of the year, so it works harder than almost anywhere: heat and humidity keep it running, salt air corrodes outdoor coils near the coast, and hurricane-season outages and power surges are hard on compressors and controls. When a system needs replacing, the change-out typically needs a mechanical permit, and the new equipment has to meet the SEER2 efficiency standards in effect since 2023. We plan it in writing and close the permit at the end.
- AC repair when the system isn't cooling, short-cycles or freezes up.
- Refrigerant leaks found and repaired.
- AC replacement and new installs to current SEER2 efficiency standards, permitted.
- Heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits for additions, garages and rooms the ducts don't reach.
- Maintenance, condensate drain clogs and AC water leaks into ceilings and closets.
- Thermostats replaced and set up, including programmable and smart models.
How an AC change-out runs
- 1
Look and scope
We look at the existing system, the home and what isn't working, and put the options in writing.
- 2
Permit
Our licensed air-conditioning subcontractor pulls the mechanical permit for the change-out or new system.
- 3
Install
The old equipment comes out and the new system is installed, secured and started up.
- 4
Inspect and close
Final inspection passed and the permit closed, so nothing is left open on your property record.
AC work is a licensed trade in Florida
Final Touch Builders handles your AC and heating project under our Florida Certified Building Contractor license (CBC1265305). The AC work itself is performed by our Florida-licensed air-conditioning subcontractors, who pull the mechanical permit.
That's how Florida law sets it up: under s. 489.113(3), Florida Statutes, a building contractor subcontracts air-conditioning work to a licensed air-conditioning contractor.
Replacing a condenser or air handler, or installing a new system, typically needs a permit. Swapping a thermostat or clearing a condensate drain usually doesn't — your building department has the final word.
AC & heating questions
- Does replacing my AC need a permit?
- Typically, yes — a change-out or a new system usually needs a mechanical permit from your city or county. Our licensed air-conditioning subcontractor pulls it, and the permit is closed after the final inspection.
- What is SEER2?
- SEER2 is the efficiency rating the U.S. Department of Energy has used for central air conditioners and heat pumps since January 1, 2023. Florida is in the Southeast region, which has a higher minimum for split-system central air conditioners than northern states, so a replacement system has to meet it.
- Why is water leaking from my AC?
- Usually the condensate drain is clogged. In South Florida humidity an AC pulls a lot of water out of the air, and when the drain line backs up it can overflow into a ceiling or closet. Clearing the line usually fixes it; if it keeps happening, the cause needs a closer look.
- Heat pump or mini-split?
- A heat pump replaces a central system and handles both cooling and heating. A ductless mini-split cools and heats one area without ducts — useful for an addition, a converted garage or a room the central system doesn't reach.
- Do you do AC work outside Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach?
- No — AC and heating service is in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties only. Our building and roofing work covers the rest of Florida.
Request a free AC estimate
Tell us what the system is doing — not cooling, leaking water, or due for replacement — and your city in Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach.
Prefer to talk?
(954) 620-7812