Last Friday: First the service provided was first rate! Second I didn't have a picture to get a good estimate (my fault for not taking a picture prior to going to the shop). I had a competitive estimate of $100, but didn't like the attitude of that shop and decided to go with the Pool Shop. Diane has always been honest with me. The only reason that they didn't get 5 star rating was the estimate was off by 45%. (PS - Diane did not give me the estimate.)
The person at the counter told me that it would be the trip charge, the time at their hourly rate and PVC parts to change out the back flush valve which I had already purchased. It was supposed to take the technical approximately 40 minutes to do the work. Estimated w/o picture: $110. They could get a technician out today if I wanted! Hurray!
When the technician got there it took 81 minutes, he did say that the paint was taking him longer to get off than expected.
When I received the call on Monday the bill was $139 labor and $26 of parts, with a total of approximately $165. I said that the estimate was for $110, why was it off that much and he did state that he didn't have a picture and there were more parts and work than he had expected. I protested and Diane got on the phone. She stated that the prices at Pool Shop were fair and w/o a picture it was a guess not an estimate. I told her that I now understand, but when quoted I did not. I said that I felt $150 was a better solution and she agreed to reduce the invoice to that amount.
The good news is that the pool cleaner runs faster than before w/o adjusting the valve. Better suction / water flow, leads to a cleaner pool. No leaks, like I stated up front the workmanship was first rate!
Their people always try to do their best, including referring business away when it is not in their forte'. I am a fan of the pool shop and their people.
Lesson learn: Always take a picture prior to getting an estimate.