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5.0 HOW TO AVOID PROBLEMS; HOW TO COMPLAIN AND GET RESULTS

A few simple rules can save you a lot of time and aggravation if things go wrong.

== Never, never pay a contractor in full until all the work is done to your satisfaction. Everything must be completed to your satisfaction, before you write that final check.

== Insist that your automobile mechanic call you before any work is done on your car. Make sure that the mechanic knows where to call you. Some people will tell their mechanic to call if the repairs will be over $100 or some such amount.

== Do not send in warranty cards for any new product until you have thoroughly tested it. Most stores will let you return a product within 30 days. However, once you have mailed in the warranty card you are no longer dealing with the store but with the manufacturer. This rule is especially true with mail order companies. Many will not take a product back if the warranty card has been filled out or sent in. Once you have filled out the warranty card, you must return the product to the manufacturer who will repair it. Most manufacturers, however, will not refund your money or exchange your lemon for a new item.

== Charge it on a charge card. All mail order purchases should be on a charge card because you will generally have the option to withhold payment if you have a problem. I would also charge any travel packages and most travel arrangements. You will have to notify your charge card company in writing that you are withholding payment and why. Many charge card statements contain a full explanation of how to do this.

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