Garage doors are the largest moving components of homes, and many people now also use them as the main entry point to their homes. But what happens when there’s a problem? Well, you have to get it repaired, of course. But who can you trust?
If you value your family’s safety, don’t entrust its repair to just anyone!
In this digital age, there are no limit to the fraudsters ripping people off. They’re everywhere, even in the garage door repair industry. It’s therefore essential that you do your research and don’t just hire the first repair guy you find.
We’ve compiled this post to help you understand how to spot a garage door repair scammer. With a little vigilance, you can ensure you choose the right company for the job.
Ask for recommendations
From your family, friends, neighbours, colleagues… If you know anyone who has had repairs done recently, find out which company they used and whether they recommend them.
Also, when looking for companies online check if any of their customers have left reviews, you might even recognize someone’s name. If you do, contact them and check the review is an accurate description of their satisfaction. Beware of any company with X amount of very similar‑sounded reviews written by people with false sounding names. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Search efficiently
Don’t just look at the first page of search results, go further back to the lower‑ranked pages and see what they are. The company has maybe been mentioned on someone’s blog, website or forum. You need to have as much information as possible to make an educated decision.
Look for physical addresses
A company’s website that doesn’t list a physical address should sound alarm bells in your head. And even if there is a physical address, check where it is on Google Maps, you should be able to tell from Street View if it’s actually a garage door repair business.
Look for photos
A company that’s proud of the work it does will display photos of their completed projects and their team. You should be weary of any site without any photos or with photos that have clearly been pulled from stock image websites.
Double check any mention of association membership
If the company’s website states that it’s a member of a professional association, double check with the association. If it is, it’s a good sign that the company is reputable. Members of professional associations have to adhere to high levels of standards and uphold a code of ethics.
Don’t be frightened to pick up the phone
A true garage door repair specialist will be able to answer all of your questions. Make sure you ask them about their address, their operating licenses, their liability insurance cover, their warranty on parts and labour, whether their employees are covered by accident insurance, and if their vehicles are easily‑identified with the company’s name and logo.
Once you’ve found a company, you need to be on the lookout for tell‑tale signs:
For example, if the company provides you with an overall price upfront without having seen what work needs to be done, it’s probably not to be trusted. A serious garage door repair company will provide you with an estimate, based on their hourly rate and mileage charges. They will then send a technician to evaluate the work that needs to be carried out in person, checking if any other components also need repairing as well as whether your automatic reversal system is functioning properly. Once they have a better idea of the work that needs to be done, they can provide you with a final quote.
Ask for a written estimate and that they explain exactly what the costs relate to. Be on the lookout for companies that ask you to pay (or to pay cash) before the work has been completed. Also, ensure you receive any parts that have been changed. You should also ask the company to provide you with an invoice showing the warranty of parts and labour. In some cases, this will mean paying for the work as soon as it’s been completed.
If your garage door is damaged beyond repair
You can come down to our showroom or request an online quotation. We’re garage door experts with years of experience in your area. We’ll work with you to find the best solution that fits in your budget. Give us a call at:
- London: 519-685-9797
- Mount Pleasant: 905-304-9700
- Guelph: 519-821-4400
- Goderich: 519-482-3251
While you’re here, why not have a play around with our Design Centre tool and "try out" some different garage door styles to find the perfect fit for your home?.
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