Beware of emergency tradespeople!

The Trier Chamber of Skilled Crafts advises: Before supposed help becomes a cost trap, it is important to find out about the terms and conditions of emergency services.

When the key is stuck in the lock, the drain is overflowing, the heating has broken down, or only ice-cold water comes out of the shower – emergencies don't keep business hours. Unscrupulous emergency services (tradespeople or service providers, i.e., referral services) exploit such situations and demand exorbitant prices. Often, payment is demanded in cash, and in some cases, customers are even pressured. In their time of need, many people pay exorbitant prices because these unscrupulous companies take advantage of precisely this stressful situation.

Below we give tips on how to proactively protect yourself and take preventative action:

• It's best to research local tradespeople who work outside normal business hours and offer transparent pricing before an emergency arises. Such a nearby service provider can respond more quickly and is often more trustworthy and cheaper.
• Be critical when searching online. Many disreputable providers achieve high rankings in search results through paid advertising. Opt for a local provider. Check online who is behind the company. Does the legal notice (Impressum) list a local address and include information about the legal structure, VAT ID, etc.?
• Avoid 0800 area codes and service numbers such as 01805.
• Even during the initial phone call, you should clarify how far the technician has to travel, what the costs will be – including surcharges for nights, weekends, or holidays – and whether a fixed price is possible. If a free estimate is refused, that's already an indication of a lack of trustworthiness.
• Insist on an invoice – don't agree to cash payment under pressure. If the tradesperson insists on cash payment and becomes abusive, don't hesitate to contact the police. Reputable companies issue a detailed invoice and accept bank transfers.

 

Contact the Trier Chamber of Skilled CraftsContact person Claudia Mohr (Ass. jur.) Legal Officer, Tel. 0651 207114, E-Mail: cmohr@hwk-trier.de

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