I'm looking for some ideas from people who have been ripped off by shops.
Last November 2019, I dropped my plane off to get some work done on Vancouver Island, Canada. I am from Saskatchewan so it's a long drive but I had family there. Including the installation of an avionics package that someone sold all in one with 2 Aspens, G530, G330.
I was not given a quote up front but in May 2020 by email message, at 65 hours in saying that there would be another 40 of work and it would be done In one week. Their shop rate is $115/hr.
I thought better late than never. I took the time off work a week later. I have been stuck on the island waiting for something that wasn't near done.
I have received an invoice for work as of 31 May that bills 135 hours. The owner never discussed this with me.
It's now mid June with no bill but I speculate >150 hour range and no plane. They say maybe next week, if they sort out an issue they're having with trim.
They want payment up front by wire transfer before release.
The shop owner is not returning my calls and dodging any attempt at a meeting. I've lost alot of sleep and income in the past few weeks.
My goal is I get my plane back working for a fair price. I was hoping for an honest discussion with the owner but that doesn't seem like it will happen.
My fear is I'm being overcharged significantly, paying a premium for someone who doesn't know what they are doing and will still end up with a avionic lemon.
Can anyone offer me some advice.
Marek