Let's face it, one doesn't exactly prepare ahead for home and auto repairs. With bills to pay and other expenses needed to get through the month, to have something unexpected come up like an accident or burst pipe requires attention, and money. At some point in our lives, we're expected to give up money saved for something special to take care of something more important. Therefore, it's necessary to make sure the repair is done right the first time and doesn't incur further financial strain.
If you're tight on money, it may be tempting to go with a low bidder in order to fix your repairs, yet in the long run that could hurt you. While it may not be true across the board, choosing a plumber, repairman, or other contractor based on price without researching them could lead to trouble. If you were to hire a mechanic for your home or car who wasn't properly licensed, for example, you might find you'll experience problems with your insurance company. Then you'll have to another another person to right any mistakes in the repair, costing you even more!
How can you avoid such problems?
1) Referrals. Talk to trusted friends and relative, ask which plumbers and mechanics they use. Has anybody used the same people for years without incident? Are there online reviews of the work done you can examine?
2) Business references. Research who will work for you. Are they licensed? Are they members of the local chamber of commerce or Better Business Bureau. Does the BBB have on record any official complaints?
3) Communication. How do the staff act when approached? Are they friendly and courteous? Do they answer all questions directly? Are they complete in their procedures and contracts?
The more you learn about the people who come into your home or work on your car, the better prepared you are for a concise repair that hopefully won't cost you more in the long run.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on plumbers in Virginia Beach and Virginia Beach handyman services. |
No comments:
Post a Comment