Garage door scams may come and go, but they never completely vanish. Consumers need to be on the lookout for local garage door scams that promise big results for very little money. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

How Garage Door Scams Work

Scammers market to consumers who need emergency repair. When you need immediate service, you often call the first company you find and fail to seek a second written bid from a reputable local company that won’t overcharge or recommend unnecessary repairs.

Scammers will also take advantage of your lack of knowledge of garage door operation and the actual cost of garage door parts such as springs, rollers and cables.

While overcharging is not necessarily illegal, scammers are often using false advertising and deceptive practices to get deeply into your pockets.

How To Avoid Garage Door Scams

• Search online to see if the company has a local address or showroom and view the property on Google Maps.
• Find the company’s Facebook page and read all the customer reviews.
• Get estimates from multiple garage door companies and compare prices. If the technician pressures you to move forward with the repair right away to qualify for an advertised price, reconsider the agreement.
• Make sure the employee is driving a truck or vehicle with the company’s name and contact information and is wearing a shirt with the company name and logo.
• Use dealer locators on garage door manufacturer websites. Major manufacturers have a “Where to Buy” page that lists reputable garage door dealers who service their products in your market.
• Garage door scammers often operate under generic names, like Garage Door Services, or a name slightly different than an established reputable local garage door dealer. Make sure to ask the representative what the name of their company is - don’t provide the name for them.
• Always choose a company that is licensed, bonded and insured. Bonded means that you are financially protected if the job is done poorly or left unfinished. Insurance, on the other hand, covers their liability while on duty. For example, if the tech gets injured while working, the company's insurance will cover any claims and you won't be held liable.
• Make sure to get everything in writing. Get a written contract that specifies the price, labor and time frame of the job before authorizing any work to begin. Never sign anything unless you have thoroughly read all paperwork and are aware of any warranties or guarantees.

A Garage Door Company You Can Trust

For over 50 years, Overhead Door Company of Sioux City™ has been serving Siouxland from its original location. It is recognized as one of the most reputable and trusted brands in the garage door industry. Our doors are durable and long lasting. We are an Overhead Door™ Red Ribbon distributor, which means we offer unequaled expertise in the Overhead Door’s™ innovative product line. Always look for the red ribbon.