I was quoted $110 for a $30 part to be replaced (the battery/SD card cover). The quote stated '$22 estimate fee, included in quote'
I emailed him to confirm that the estimate fee wouldn’t be charged if I went ahead with the repair, and he said NO, it wouldn’t be.
Went ahead with the quote thinking it would be $88 ($30 part, $58 labour), was still charged $110. Was told that the estimate fee was ON TOP OF the quote, and only payable if I didn’t go ahead with the quote.
His website CLEARLY states FREE ESTIMATES
So the only way to get my camera back was to pay his blown out charge.
Then he tried to educate me on what the words 'included in quote means. Apparently 'included in quote' means 'not included in quote but this is what you will pay if you ask me for a price and don’t proceed with the work'
Would NOT recommend. His quotes are deceptive. I will also be in touch with the ACCC, or whomever watches over this type of scam, given the bold advertisement of FREE ESTIMATES on Cal's Camera Repairs website. Free estimates, for the low low cost of $22. That’s FREE, right?
Don’t get me wrong, I PERFECTLY understand the stance of a business not wanting to give out quotes if people aren’t going to go ahead with them... BUT DONT ADVERTISE FREE QUOTES if that is the case!
