10
Tips to Get Repairs Done Right
ALEXANDRIA,
Va., March 14, 2012 -- Many boaters and anglers work on their own
boats, but there are times when professional help may be needed. With
30 years of experience dealing with marine service industry, the BoatUS
Consumer Protection Bureau knows that most marine professionals do
the job right. Every year, however, a handful of boat owners wind
up coming to the Bureau's Dispute Mediation program for help because
of faulty repairs or disagreements with bills. Here are ten tips gleaned
from mediating hundreds of cases over the years that will help ensure
the job goes smoothly:
1. A tight budget is OK: In today's
economy, a tight budget is expected - just make this clear before
the job begins. The shop may be able to suggest ways to complete the
project in stages. Always ask how much similar repairs have cost in
the past and what kinds of problems are possible along the way.
2. Write it up - or take your chances: Get a written
estimate before work begins, and remember that it is based on an approximation
of how much the job will cost. With boats, it's not unusual to have
unforeseen problems crop up later - so taking your frustrations out
on your repairer won't help. You can always ask the shop to obtain
your authorization before proceeding with unforeseen repairs or when
work goes beyond the estimated price.
3. Ask for evidence: Ask to get back old or damaged
parts.
4. OK to second guess: If you're not comfortable
with the first estimate, get a second opinion from another mechanic
or a marine surveyor.
5. Follow a plan: Once you approve the estimate,
a work order should be drawn up. Ask for a target completion date
and write this into the work order.
6. Keep everyone in the loop: Always be sure the
actual mechanic working on your boat has a copy of your work order
when the project begins.
7. Get help with the big stuff: For complex repairs,
it's wise to consult with a marine surveyor and consider having the
surveyor serve as a liaison with the repair shop. Ask around for a
referral or check out the list of surveyors at www.BoatUS.com/surveyors.
8. The payment plan: Understand that when tackling
large jobs, boat repair shops often require payments at various stages
of completion. Be sure to verify that each stage has been completed
before paying. If you cannot be on hand to check progress yourself,
consider hiring a marine surveyor to make periodic checks.
9. Don't be hasty: If you are unhappy with the work,
do not stop payment on your check after you pay your repair bill.
This can be interpreted as intent to defraud the repair shop and put
you in deep kimchi.
10. Know when to walk: Understand that when asking
for all of the things above, you may not get everything you want.
On the other hand, walk away if you get the feeling a marine repairer
isn't interested in helping you with most of these basic protections
that get the job done right. Reputable shops know the importance of
customer service.
