Belgium's Economy Ministry received over 1,100 complaints about repair services: follow these tips to avoid problems

Belgian consumers are facing significant issues with repair services, with the Federal Public Service for Economy receiving 1,134 complaints in the first six months of this year alone. The complaints primarily target plumbers, electricians, heating technicians, and roofers, citing problems such as price gouging and substandard work, especially during urgent call-outs.

This surge in complaints follows a trend from last year, when the number of reported issues doubled compared to the previous year. Customers frequently report unexpectedly high invoices, misleading price information, and difficulties with the execution of repairs. The service notes that plumbers and electricians are the most frequent subjects of these complaints, followed by heating technicians and roofers.

To combat these problems, the Federal Public Service for Economy emphasizes proactive consumer preparation. They advise against contacting the first available service found online, as search engine rankings can be influenced by paid placements. Instead, they recommend seeking recommendations from trusted sources like friends, family, and colleagues.

When selecting a repair service, obtaining multiple quotes is crucial for understanding standard pricing. For any agreed-upon work, consumers have the right to a written estimate detailing all costs, including parts and labor, before any work begins. Services that appear too good to be true, such as unusually low starting prices, should be treated with caution. Consumers should also be wary of pressure to pay immediately, as invoices are typically payable after the work is completed.