Massachusetts Homeowners Are Finally Getting the HVAC Service Transparency They Deserve—Here’s What Changed in 2025

For too long, Massachusetts homeowners have faced the frustration of hidden fees and surprise charges when calling for HVAC repairs. A diagnostic visit quoted at $150 suddenly becomes $300 with unexplained service charges. Emergency repair estimates balloon with mysterious “convenience fees” and undisclosed markups. But effective September 2, 2025, Massachusetts began enforcing groundbreaking consumer protection regulations that are revolutionizing how HVAC companies must present their pricing and services.

The Game-Changing 940 CMR 38.00 Regulation

Massachusetts defines “junk fees” as hidden, surprise, or unnecessary costs that increase the total price of a product beyond the advertised price, often not disclosed until the end of a transaction or after consumers have provided their personal billing information. The new regulations under 940 CMR 38.00 require the clear and conspicuous disclosure of the total price of a product being advertised to consumers, including any fees, interest, charges, or other expenses necessary to complete a transaction.

For HVAC services, this means dramatic changes in how companies like Dempsey Energy must operate. Businesses must clearly disclose the full cost of a product or service, including all mandatory fees, upfront, before collecting any personal or billing information. No more surprise charges after the technician arrives at your door.

What This Means for Your Next HVAC Service Call

When you search for “Air Conditioning Service Near Me” in Massachusetts, you’ll notice immediate differences in how reputable companies present their services. Companies must now disclose the nature, purpose, and amount of any charges that may be imposed on a transaction, including whether any charges are optional or waivable, along with readily available instructions on how to avoid any optional or waivable charges.

This transparency revolution particularly benefits homeowners during emergency situations. Previously, when your AC failed on a sweltering summer day, you might accept any quote just to get relief. Now, HVAC companies must provide complete pricing information upfront, allowing you to make informed decisions even under pressure.

How Dempsey Energy Embraces the New Standards

For over 30 years, families across Massachusetts have trusted Dempsey Energy, and the company’s commitment to transparency aligns perfectly with the new regulations. Based in North Attleboro, Dempsey Energy delivers reliable, professional, and personalized HVAC solutions throughout southeastern Massachusetts.

The company’s approach exemplifies how quality HVAC providers are adapting to the new requirements. Dempsey Energy provides clear explanations of options and upfront costs before any work begins, with no hidden fees or surprise charges after the job is done. This transparency isn’t just regulatory compliance—it’s been part of their business philosophy for decades.

As a family-owned business, Dempsey Energy stands out for their white glove service while ensuring customer comfort from the first phone call to service completion. Their NATE-certified technicians use fully stocked trucks for fast repairs, and they maintain transparency throughout the entire process.

The Enforcement Reality

These aren’t just suggestions—they’re enforceable regulations with real consequences. The regulations are enforced under the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act, which allows the Attorney General to seek civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. This gives the new transparency requirements serious teeth.

Out-of-state businesses advertising to Massachusetts consumers are also covered, increasing class action exposure for noncompliance. This means even national HVAC chains must adapt their practices when serving Massachusetts customers.

What to Expect from Compliant HVAC Companies

Under the new regulations, when you contact an HVAC company for service, you should expect:

• Upfront Total Pricing: All mandatory fees disclosed before you provide personal information
• Clear Fee Explanations: Detailed breakdown of what each charge covers
• Optional vs. Mandatory Clarity: Clear identification of which services and fees you can decline
• No Surprise Charges: The final bill should match initial estimates unless you approve additional work
• Easy Cancellation: Simple processes to cancel any recurring services or maintenance agreements

The Broader Impact on Massachusetts HVAC Market

This transparency revolution levels the playing field for honest companies while protecting consumers from predatory practices. By enabling consumers to more easily compare prices while shopping, the regulations level the playing field for businesses. Companies like Dempsey Energy, which have always prioritized transparency, now have a competitive advantage over those that previously relied on hidden fees.

Dempsey Energy’s 12,000+ customers know they can count on honest service and reliable repairs, and the new regulations ensure all Massachusetts residents receive this same level of transparency regardless of which HVAC company they choose.

Your Rights as a Massachusetts Consumer

If you encounter HVAC companies that don’t comply with these new transparency requirements, you have recourse. Consumers who believe they have been subject to an unfair or deceptive business practice, including in relation to “junk fees,” may file a consumer complaint or call the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400.

The AC service transparency revolution in Massachusetts represents more than just regulatory compliance—it’s a fundamental shift toward treating consumers with the respect and honesty they deserve. Whether you need emergency repairs, routine maintenance, or system replacement, you now have the legal right to complete pricing transparency from the very first interaction with any HVAC company serving Massachusetts residents.