How to Choose a Garage Door Repair Company

Posted Wednesday, December 7th, 2016

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Not all Garage Door Repair Companies are created equal. In fact, many are down right deceptive. Beware of questionable practices. And follow these 7 steps to success.

7 Steps Everyone Should Take Before Hiring a Garage Door Repair Company

Step #1: Get bids from at least two companies.

You may be in a hurry to get your garage door fixed, but are you prepared to pay $500 to $1,000 for a $150 repair? Also keep in mind that some companies will tell you that your door needs to be replaced, when in fact it only needs a repair. Getting multiple bids is the best way to avoid getting scammed.

You can get these bids quickly over the phone. However, when the technician arrives, let him know that he needs to get your permission before exceeding the bid. Do not be afraid to reject proposed extra repairs that may be unreasonable

Step #2: Beware of the repair specialist.

Many unethical garage door companies intentionally target repair work because:

Customers are desperate for a quick fix and won’t get other bids.
Customers don’t know the real cost of garage door parts.
Customers don’t know a necessary repair from a bogus one.

If you get one bid from a company that focuses on repair, get another bid from a long-established company that does garage door sales and service.

Step #3: Be leery of phones answered generically, such as “Garage Doors” or “Door Service.”

Slippery companies that operate under many different names use this tactic. They can’t even answer their own phones honestly. If a company answers its phone like this, ask them, “What company is this?” If they balk at this simple question, hang up and call someone else.

Step #4: Beware of excessive advertising.

The top position on Google or the first ad on YP.com does not necessarily indicate a reputable company. In fact, many of these so-called companies are simply lead generation fronts. They take calls from desperate customers and farm them out to any company who will pay them for a lead. There is no regard for reputation or a service guarantee.

Also beware of promises for many discounts, low prices, same-day service, and phony-looking reviews or testimonials. Especially unverifiable claims of 5 Star or #1 rated.

Step #5: Beware of the name game.

Many unethical companies operate under several names so they can get more phone calls. It also makes it difficult for customer to track them down later. Make sure that a company’s name on their Google Ad listing matches the name on their website. If it looks shady, call someone else.

Step #6: Check their address.

Does their website list their street address? Many, but not all, rip-off companies operate with:

Heavy Advertising
A Cell Phone
A Pickup Truck

But “NO” Storefront. Sometimes to give the illusion of being an established business, they will publish a phony address. Check out their address on Google Street View. See if it really exists. If not, call someone else.

Step #7: Ask Cressy.

Cressy Door and Fireplace has been in business since 1952. For 64 years, we have been helping our Northwest neighbors repair, maintain and install their garage doors. We are not least expensive option. However, we are fair and thorough. Give us a call to provide you with an estimate. You’ll never be disappointed that you called on Cressy.

Resource Guide: Is it time to repair or replace your garage door?

Garage Door Repair by Cressy Door and Fireplace