LOUISVILLE, Ky. – If you find yourself locked out of your home or dealing with a broken garage door, the urge to get fast help can lead to an expensive mistake. Consumer experts warn that calling the first repair company you see online could expose you to a common scam.
During the busy holiday season, garage door failures and lockouts are especially stressful — and scammers know it. Many questionable companies advertise heavily online and appear at the top of search results, making them look like trusted local businesses. But once they arrive, homeowners often report surprise fees, unnecessary repairs, and bills far higher than expected.
In many cases, technicians show up in unmarked vans, claim additional parts are needed, and charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original estimate. Similar tactics are also common among fraudulent locksmith services.
Industry professionals say some of these operators even pretend to be well-known local companies, despite having no physical office or verified business presence.
Before hiring a garage door technician or locksmith, experts recommend:
Don’t rely on the first company listed online. Paid ads can be misleading.
Verify the business is truly local, with a legitimate address and phone number.
Check reviews with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other trusted sources.
Confirm the technician arrives in a marked vehicle with the company name displayed.
Ask for identification and request an estimate before any work begins.
Taking a few extra minutes to research the company can prevent unexpected charges and help you avoid a costly scam.
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