Definition:
“No callout charges” means that a service provider, such as a locksmith, will not charge a fee just for travelling to your location to inspect the issue or provide an initial assessment. You will only be billed for the actual work done or services rendered.
Practical Example:
- Scenario: You have a broken lock at your home and need a locksmith.
- With Callout Charges: Some locksmiths might charge a fee simply for coming to your location, regardless of whether they perform any work. For example, if the callout fee is £50, you pay this amount just for their visit. If the repair costs £60+ VAT, you end up paying £110+ VAT in total.
- Without Callout Charges: A locksmith advertising “no callout charges” would come to your home, assess the broken lock, and only charge for the actual repair work. If the repair costs £60+ VAT, that’s all you pay.
Benefits:
- Cost-Effective: You save money by not paying a fee for the locksmith’s travel time.
- Customer-Friendly: Encourages customers to seek professional help without worrying about additional upfront fees.
- Transparency: This helps in building trust, as customers know they are only paying for the actual service provided.
Important Considerations:
- Verify Details: Always confirm with the locksmith what their “no callout charges” policy includes. Ensure there are no hidden fees or additional costs.
- Emergency Services: Sometimes, emergency or out-of-hours services might still attract additional charges, even if there are no standard callout fees.
- Geographical Limits: Some companies might offer “no callout charges” within a specific area. If you are outside of this area, travel fees might still apply.
- Quotes and Estimates: Ask for a detailed quote before any work begins. This should include labour costs, parts, and any other potential charges to avoid surprises.
Industry Practice:
The practice of “no callout charges” is common in various service industries like locksmiths, plumbers, and electricians. It is designed to make professional services more appealing and accessible to customers, potentially increasing business by removing a common barrier to entry— the initial callout fee.
Understanding these nuances can help you make an informed decision when hiring service providers and ensure that you are not caught off guard by unexpected costs. Always check before ordering the repairs.
Our company policy is not to charge a call-out fee.