consumer alert: how to avoid garage door scams

From Clopay:

Here are tips to help you avoid garage door scams.
- Don’t always call the first company that pops up when you search for local garage door service or emergency garage door repair. Scammers are notorious for buying digital ads to keep these types of calls rolling in because that is when homeowners are most vulnerable.
- Listen for background noise when you call the garage door company. If it sounds like you have reached a call center, chances are the company is not local or reputable.
- Search online to find out if the company has a local building address or showroom and view the property on Google Maps.
- Read customer reviews!

- Make sure the employee is driving a truck with the specific company’s name and is wearing a shirt with the company name and logo.
- Use dealer locators on garage door manufacturer websites. Major manufacturers have a “Where to Buy” page that lists reputable garage door dealers who service their products in your market. These companies invest in training their service technicians and uphold standards recommended by the International Door Association and Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association.
- Garage door scammers often operate under multiple generic names, like Garage Door Services, or a name slightly different than an established reputable local garage door dealer. When you call, make sure to ask the representative what the name of their company is — don’t provide the name for them.