Garage Door Repair Scams: How to Protect Yourself
Up next in consumer alerts: the all-too-common garage door repair scam. The Door & Access System Manufacturers Association (DASMA) and International Door Association (IDA) recently issued warnings about these scams that occur nationwide. Follow along with our tips to detect shady garage door repair operations and to find out how to identify reputable companies.
Tip #1: Scammers Work in Metro Areas
Garage door repair scammers operate in metro areas like Portland and Vancouver, where many garage door companies already exist. They will also advertise heavily with the promise of low fees. These tactics allow them to target a larger percentage of the population by posing as another trusted provider in the area.
Tip #2: Always Double Check Your Garage Door Service Bill
Scammers are notorious for overcharging on simple fixes to rack up the bill. Before you choose a garage door service provider, acquire additional estimates and compare the charges. A scammer will often tack on additional fees for unnecessary parts and repairs.
Tip #3: Watch Garage Door Consumer Alert Videos
The garage door experts at DASMA & IDA published consumer alert videos to warn consumers about the prevalence of garage door repair scams. We encourage all garage door owners to watch these videos to learn more about identifying and avoiding scammers.
Tip #4: How to Distinguish Scammers from Real Garage Door Companies
The uneducated consumer might have a hard time distinguishing between scammers and genuine garage door repair companies. The videos above mention several ways to find a reputable company, including:
- Checking the Better Business Bureau for reviews.
- Searching for garage door dealers on DASMA or IDA databases.
- Calling the company in question to ask for a street address.
The garage door experts at Larry Myers want to be your trusted resource for all garage door needs. Whether you’re seeking garage door repairs or replacements or are looking to upgrade your home with new garage doors, let us be the first company you contact. We look forward to working with you.