Complain to the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery
Question & Answer
Can the repair shop charge me more than they said they would?If the repair shop has not followed the rules about how much they can charge you, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery.
Before the Ministry will help, you must send a written complaint to the repair shop. Be sure to keep a copy of the letter. Send the letter by registered mail so that you have proof that the repair shop got your letter.
Your letter should include:
- your name and address
- the date
- the name of the repair shop and their address
- the date you contacted them or authorized the repair
- the work you had done
- the price you paid
- the reasons why you disagree with the charges
- specific instructions about how you want to solve the problem. For example, ask for a refund, return, etc.
- the date by which you want a response from them (3 weeks is reasonable)
When you send you letter be sure to include:
- your evidence, like copies, not originals, of receipts, invoices, contracts, or other relevant documents
- your signature
Make sure you keep a copy of your letter and your registered mail receipt so that you have proof that the repair shop got it.
The Ministry can investigate your complaint, order the repair shop to follow the law, and even take the repair shop to court. If the repair shop is found guilty of breaking the law or an order from the Ministry, they can be fined or sent to jail.