When you are looking for heating, air conditioning or plumbing services from Chief/Bauer Service Experts, you will pay a trip charge and a diagnostic fee separately. Many companies you’ve hired in the past most likely combined the trip charge and diagnostic fee, but we feel we can offer even more value by separating them.
What's a Trip Charge?
A trip charge includes the cost for a certified plumber or HVAC technician to visit your home. Sometimes called a service call fee, this payment is the initial rate for sending our technicians, equipment and expertise to your door. If you want to cut out the trip charges in the future, you can consider joining one of our membership programs.
What Is a Diagnostic Fee?
The diagnostic fee pays for the services needed to locate the root of a problem. In plumbing, this can consist of scoping. For HVAC repairs, it could involve examining the inside of your unit. If you elect to use Chief/Bauer Service Experts for any repairs, the diagnostic fee would be rolled into the repair bill. But bear in mind, you're charged for the diagnostic services alone if you choose not to.
What Are the Differences Between a Trip Fee and a Diagnostic Fee
Generally speaking, a trip fee covers sending the plumber or HVAC technician to your residence, while the diagnostic fee covers all the work involved in evaluating the issue and figuring out a plan for repairs. If you're paying for repairs, you won’t even notice the diagnostic fee as it'll be included with the cost of the repairs.
Why Are Diagnostic Fees and Trip Charges Billed Separately?
Many plumbers and HVAC companies are going to charge one fee for both the trip and the diagnostics. Rather than charging you for two services together, we prefer two separate fees. This helps us to price our services in the fairest achievable manner.