From time to time, we hear appliance, outdoor power equipment and cooling and heating equipment repair company rip-off stories from customers.
Many companies are honest and reliable. Unfortunately, there are a few bad ones in the mix, too. This is not a new problem. Fortunately, it's never been a better time for homeowners to prevent getting taken advantage of by repair companies.
How to prevent getting ripped off:
- Educate yourself, troubleshoot and determine if you can fix the problem on your own.
Understand the basic operation of your appliances and equipment by reviewing the owner's manuals and also the how-it-works videos available on our YouTube channel. Next find and record the applying or equipment model number. If you want help finding that, visit RepairClinic.com. Many of the most common appliance, outdoor power equipment and heating and cooling problems can be fixed easily by following how-to information. Repairs are often as easy as replacing a broken part. Enter your appliance or equipment model number at RepairClinic.com for free troubleshooting and repair how-to information.
- Gather information.
First, evaluate the warranty information in the owner's manual. Some parts may be covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
- Research.
Start by asking family and friends in your social networks for recommendations. Make sure to do additional research for any more thorough look at the company's integrity. Compare ratings and reviews of the various companies with the Better Business Bureau, Angie's List, Yelp, Google Local and other online resources. To be even more thorough, contact your local chamber of commerce and homeowner's association to ask about the company's reputation.
- Don't focus on the lowest quoted service price.
Remember the lowest service call price may not always get you the best deal. Elevated labor and parts costs might be added to the costs later. This is exactly why it's so important to research and discover a reputable company.
- Beware of package service promotions.
Heating and cooling repair companies and small engine repair centers frequently promote inexpensive packaging tune-up and maintenance packages. In the end always recommend that you perform routine maintenance or hire professionals to do the work, be aware that there are unscrupulous firms that may use the maintenance visit as an opportunity to find more lucrative work on your equipment. A company with a stellar reputation in the community is more likely to give you the best value over time.
After you've hired a repair company:
- Record the repair professional's name
- Retain all invoices. The invoice should describe work completed and list all replaced parts. Request to determine and keep the replaced parts. Unless the various components are under manufacturer warranty or even the manufacturer has a core return program offering a rebate for a return part, you own the parts.
Red flags
- Lack of a physical address in company communications.
- Inability to present proof of insurance.
- If the repair professional insists upon pay separately (i.e. one look for service, one check for parts). If this occurs, contact the company immediately.
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