7 tips for finding an appliance repairman you can trust

Instead of replacing a household appliance when it breaks down, why not repair? Here's how to hire someone who knows what they're doing at a price you can afford.

The best way to make sure you’re not getting taken advantage of or over-charged by your repairman is to ask your friends who they’ve used. When someone you know recommends a company with which they were completely happy (for service, price and professionalism), then you can trust you’re getting a good company. A service team with a positive thumbs up is the team you want working for you.

The ad you're looking at should say "licensed and insured" and should also have the company's license details. A service team that is both licensed and insured protects you and the company. It also shows a commitment to excellence. A team that cares about the work they do, and their clients' satisfaction, takes the appropriate steps needed to be as professional as possible.

You want a company that has been in business at the same location, under the same name for quite some time. A company with a long local history is a better bet than a recent startup with no history in the area.

The technician that comes to service your appliances is there to work for you. Feel free to ask questions and be sure to also listen to the answers you are given. A professional that knows his business will respond quickly and confidently. A repairman that has to ask someone else for the answer or look around might be cause for alarm.

Companies who spend a lot on advertising have to get that money from somewhere. There's a good chance it's from the higher fees they might charge you.

You may well receive more from a family-owned business than the unknown technician from a larger company. While a local repairman has a reputation to uphold in the neighbourhood, someone from a large national chain may not always be concerned about giving you the best deals or service.

Most service teams, who are confident in their ability to do the job, generally offer a warranty or some kind of work guarantee. Ask if the repair service offers any such guarantee; if they don't, ask yourself why.