Better Business Bureau: How to avoid garage door repair scams
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Unfortunately, garage door repair scams are common and can leave homeowners to be taken advantage of.
BBB Scam Tracker has numerous reports of unscrupulous emergency garage door repair companies who take advantage of homeowners needing repair services.
These companies target homeowners by advertising their emergency repair services, then inflating the amount of work needed or the parts needed for repair.
Consumers don't expect to be overcharged for unnecessary parts. They often take advantage of urgent situations and prey on the homeowners' lack of knowledge of garage door parts and service costs.
These companies can appear at the top of internet searches when homeowners search for emergency garage door repair.
BBB provides warning signs and tips to help consumers avoid falling victim to garage door repair scams.
Warning signs of garage door repair scams:
Payment upfront: Be cautious of any repair service that demands payment in full before any work is completed. Reputable companies will provide a detailed estimate and allow you to pay after the work is finished.
Business name: Garage door scammers often use multiple names that are generic and unclear and not listed as a legally registered business with the state.
No physical address: Garage door scammers do not have a legitimate physical showroom or will use a fake address. Scammers may only provide a phone number or an email address and avoid giving you a verifiable location.
Lack of identification: Legitimate repair professionals typically wear uniforms, have identification, and drive company-branded vehicles. Be skeptical if the individual does not have proper identification or a marked vehicle.
Unrealistic low prices: Many scams advertise a low fee for the service call, only to demand more money for additional "repairs." If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is.
High-pressure sales tactics: Scammers may use high-pressure tactics to convince you that your garage door requires immediate and costly repairs. They may insist that you should not wait, and they may demand payment upfront.
For more information
If you encounter a garage door repair scam or suspect fraudulent activity, report it to your local authorities and BBB Scam Tracker.
Whether you are looking to install a new garage door, repair a broken one, or secure the one you have, BBB is here to help. Search for a BBB Accredited garage door repair company near you.
Visit BBB's home HQ for more tips and resources for homeowners.
See BBB's home improvement HQ and home maintenance HQ for help with your next home projects.
