Taking Your Computer for Repair
The rules for finding a trustworthy computer repairer have barely changed: a recommendation, three quotes and nothing paid up front.
Photo: Disk Depot Ltd via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
The top tip for finding any kind of trader is to get a recommendation. Most computer technicians work in a local area, so ask neighbours, friends and family for the details of one they've had a good experience with.
To avoid a last minute panic, ideally try to note down details of a recommended repairer before computer disaster strikes.
Questions to ask before you hand it over
Once you have a shortlist of traders, call them all and go over the following:
- Do they charge a diagnosis fee?
- Do they charge by the hour or by the job? In many cases a flat fee for the job is best for you, but with certain work it may not be possible.
- What will happen to your data? If they are wiping your operating system, for instance, will they back up your data first, or do they expect you to have done it?
- What if the problem persists? Before you hand over your computer, ask if they will charge if the problem reoccurs once you get home.
- Take notes on the problem and any error messages to help the technician identify it.
- Get at least three quotes for labour and parts before work begins.
Once you have chosen a repairer
Do not pay any money upfront. Tell the repairer that they must ask your permission if the cost of the work will go over a certain price.
Ask the person to call you before replacing any software or hardware: you may need to check whether you risk losing data.
