Compare the agreement, not just the annual fee
Six service arrangements, their budgeting logic and the exclusions to clarify in writing.
A contract name does not define coverage. Compare the actual equipment list, scheduled tasks, repair responsibility and response commitments. This table compares structures, not providers or market prices. Use the bid checklist before requesting an annual figure.
Select a column header to sort.
| Arrangement | What you are buying | Useful when | Clarify before signing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled preventive service | Defined visits and tasks | You want a predictable service calendar | Parts, filters, cleaning and missed-visit terms |
| Labor-only agreement | Specified labor coverage | You can manage materials separately | Hours, overtime, travel and excluded labor |
| Broader parts-and-labor scope | Named repair coverage plus service | You want defined repair risk transfer | Caps, exclusions, refrigerant and pre-existing defects |
| Time and materials | Work authorized as needed | You need a discrete repair or diagnosis | Minimum charge, authorization cap and return visits |
| In-house team with specialists | Internal routine work plus external expertise | You have staff capacity and asset records | Training, tools, absence cover and specialist tasks |
| Performance-based project | Defined outcome and verification plan | You have a measurable baseline | Weather, occupancy, tariffs and savings attribution |
A response-time promise is different from a restoration-time promise. No contract can guarantee parts availability unless it says how stock and substitutions are handled. For operation and maintenance context, consult ENERGY STAR. Refrigerant work may require EPA Section 608 certification.