The words “upsell” have long been thought of as dirty words by consumers and even service professionals alike. Professionals like to use the term “add ons” or “upgrades”. Now, there is definitely a place for upsells or upgrades or whatever your preferred nomenclature. The flip side is that it can be an area that dishonest professionals can exploit to the detriment of an unsuspecting customer. Service professionals often get called out to address one aspect of a customer’s garage and discover there are other issues that need attention. I have also heard countless stories from customers that decided to seek a second opinion because someone told them they needed the Rolls Royce of garage doors or their house might explode when actually, a proper tune-up did the trick. How can you know for sure if you really need that unexpected up-sell?

Here are a few key things to help you navigate meeting with a service professional:

  1. Do your research. Gather as much information about the product or service you desire, thus being prepared before the service technician knocks on your door.
  2. Ask questions. If there is something broken that needs replacing, have the technician show you. Ask her how it works and why it broke. Do not just assume that’s just the way it is, especially if it seems expensive.
  3. Trust your gut! If it seems fishy and your tech won’t make eye contact with you as he tells you the cost, then get a second opinion.
  4. Talk to your friends and neighbors. Find out which companies they like and who they trust. Word of good work travels fast and poor work even faster.

Overall, doing your homework, reading reviews, and consulting the people you trust are the very best ways to ensuring you get a high quality and honest company servicing your home’s needs.