How not to get scammed at a phone repair shop

Repairing a phone is about trust: you hand over a device with all your photos, chats and banking. Here's what to look for to avoid "surprise extras", swapped parts, or a repair that makes things worse.

1. The price comes before the repair, not after

An honest shop gives you the price before work starts and doesn't begin without your approval. If something else turns up when the phone is opened, the technician calls or messages you first and asks, rather than presenting you with a done deal. "We'll take a look and tell you later" with no estimate at all is a red flag.

2. A receipt at intake

The receipt should list: the model, its condition (scratches, chips), the fault in your words, what will be done, which part is fitted, and the warranty period. It protects both you and the technician.

3. Video or photos at intake

A good shop films the device at intake: the condition of the body and screen, whether it turns on. Then there's no argument about whether "that scratch was there".

4. It's clear which part is fitted

Original, a quality aftermarket part or a budget copy: they differ in price and quality (see which screen to choose). The shop should say honestly what it fits and write it on the receipt.

5. There's a warranty

A normal repair warranty is 1 to 6 months depending on the part. If there's no warranty at all, think twice.

6. Old parts on request

You're entitled to ask for the replaced part back. It's an easy way to make sure it really was replaced.

7. No "urgent, or it'll get worse"

Pressure and scare tactics are a bad sign. An honest technician explains the risks calmly and gives you time to think.

8. Reviews and track record

Read the reviews on Google Maps, especially the less-than-perfect ones, and see how the shop responds.

What you can do yourself

Back up your data before the repair.
Log out of banking apps, or know how to block them quickly.
Don't share your passcode unless needed: many repairs don't need it (and where they do, the technician will explain why).
At pick-up, check in front of the technician: screen, sound, cameras, charging, Face ID.

How we work

By appointment. We film at intake and pick-up, give you the price before the repair, and write the part type and warranty on the receipt. Warranty up to 6 months; phone diagnostics are free. More: how we work and warranty.

Questions? Message us on Telegram.

How not to get scammed at a phone repair shop: 8 signs of an honest service