Choice of emergency service:

It is best to look for qualified service companies and good tradesmen before calling! Ideally, you should make a note of these numbers before any damage occurs. Fraudsters are also listed in the telephone directory. Look for a valid address, a tax number for the company and the terms and conditions. Be careful if you are forwarded to tradesmen who are not from the area when you call! Then the tradesman's bill is guaranteed to be really expensive.

Agree on costs:

Ask for a cost estimate (must be free of charge!), even better ask for a binding complete price if the damage is manageable. In any case, you should read through the small print of the contract and check surcharges for travel and night or weekend service. "Immediate surcharges", "provision surcharges" or "special tool costs" are not permitted!

Pay by invoice:

The amount does not have to be paid in cash, this also applies to surcharges! Have an invoice issued. Processing fees are not permitted.

Unsatisfactory work?

You can discuss your options with the consumer advice center.