What Does a Fair Air Conditioning Quote Look Like?

The Anatomy of a Transparent Quote

A fair air conditioning quote should be provided in writing — never accept a verbal quote for any job over $1,000. It should clearly separate the unit cost from installation labour and list every billable component individually.

A complete quote covers:

• Indoor unit: brand, exact model number, and capacity (kW)
• Outdoor unit: model number and capacity
• Any coastal/corrosion protection treatment
• Refrigerant piping: standard allowance and rate for extended runs
• Electrical connection and circuit protection
• Drainage
• Wall penetration
• Commissioning and gas top-up
• Compliance certificates (VIC: VBA + ESV; all states: Certificate of Electrical Safety)
• GST clearly shown

Red Flags in a Quote

• Lump sum only: "Supply and install 2.5kW split system — $2,200." No model number, no breakdown. You can't compare this against another quote.
• No model number: Allows substitution of a cheaper unit after you've signed.
• Verbal only: Unenforceable. Always require written quotes.
• No mention of compliance certificates: In VIC, ESV and VBA certificates are legally required. Elsewhere, a Certificate of Electrical Safety is standard. If they're not mentioned, ask explicitly.
• Pressure to sign same day: Legitimate installers don't pressure immediate sign-off.
• ARCtick number not provided on request: Any hesitation is a serious red flag.

Green Flags

• ARCtick licence number provided willingly
• Quote explains why specific installation variables apply to your property
• Written, itemised quote provided within 24–48 hours of site assessment
• Compliance certificates explicitly included in the price
• Installer asks about your solar setup, existing electrical board, and intended usage

Getting Multiple Quotes — What the Spread Tells You

For any ducted job, get at least 3 written quotes. For split system jobs over $3,000, get at least 2.

If one quote is 30%+ cheaper than the others, investigate why — not the same unit model, not including all labour, compliance certificates excluded, or an unlicensed installer. The cheapest quote that omits critical items costs more in the long run.

A reasonable spread between 3 legitimate quotes is 10–20%. Beyond that, the cheapest is likely cutting corners or the most expensive is padding margin.

For VIC Homeowners

Always ask explicitly: "Will you provide the VBA Plumbing Compliance Certificate and the ESV Certificate of Electrical Safety after installation?" These are legal requirements in Victoria for jobs over $750. Any installer who says these aren't needed for a split system installation does not understand their licensing obligations — look elsewhere.