Phyllis Anderson knew something was off with her garage door. It had started making strange noises and sometimes stopped just short of closing completely. But, she never expected that fixing it would cost nearly $5,000.
“I’m stunned. I didn’t know what to think or what to do,” Anderson, 79, told AZFamily News.
“It’s like a panic situation for me because I have no other money coming in, and it hurts.”
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Anderson, who lives alone in Fountain Hills, Arizona, was left with an almost empty bank account after paying a $4,911.88 bill for what she thought was a standard garage door repair.
The fear she felt may be all too familiar to other older Americans — especially those on fixed incomes.
What happened?
When Anderson’s garage door finally gave out and slammed to the ground, she told AZFamily News that she contacted a company by the name of Garage Door and Gates Service. A technician told her two springs and two metal drums needed replacing — an urgent fix, he said, and one Anderson agreed to. But when the invoice came, she was stunned by the total: $4,911.88.
That number doesn’t add up, according to several garage repair companies interviewed by AZFamily News, who said the job should have cost between $300 and $700.
According to Angi (formerly Angie’s List), the average garage door repair costs just $263, with most homeowners paying between $155 and $378, depending on the door and damage. That makes Anderson’s nearly $5,000 bill a glaring outlier.
To make matters worse, Anderson felt intimidated into paying.
“I was cautious,” she said, admitting she felt too nervous to dispute the bill with the technician in her house.
When reporter Gary Harper called the repair company and asked for an explanation of the bill, a woman on the line said the company would call reporters back. But that call never came.
Harper helped Anderson call her bank and dispute the charges. Her bank has temporarily refunded the money while they investigate the dispute. For now, the cash is back in her account, but the emotional and financial stress lingers.
Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
How to avoid getting overcharged on repairs
Unfortunately, Anderson’s story isn’t unique. While contractors are generally honest, bad actors can exploit urgent repair needs, especially among elderly homeowners. The FBI warns that home repair scams are a common form of elder fraud, which affects millions of Americans each year.
Here are a few ways to help protect yourself or a loved one.
Research vendors before you call
Take the time to find a trustworthy contractor. Look for companies with strong reviews, check the Better Business Bureau and ask neighbors for referrals.
Ask about pricing upfront
Before any work begins, ask for a written estimate. Reputable companies will explain what parts are needed and how much they cost, so you won’t be hit with a surprise later.
Get multiple quotes
It’s always smart to call at least two or three companies, even if one is available sooner. A little extra time could save you hundreds — or thousands — of dollars.
Have a trusted friend or family member present
If you’re unsure about a contractor or worry you’ll feel pressured, have someone with you during the visit. It can help discourage upselling and make you feel more confident asking questions.
If you — or someone you care about — has been overcharged for home repairs, contact your bank immediately and consider filing a complaint with the state attorney general or consumer protection office.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
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