California Appliance Service

In California, the Electronic and Appliance Repair Dealer Registration Law covers electronic equipment and major home appliances normally used or sold for personal, family, household or home-office use. Consumers should know what to expect when seeking repairs. The law requires service dealers to inform the consumer in writing when a diagnosis fee will be charged and the amount of the charge; provide a written estimate of the total repair cost to the consumer; and furnish an itemized repair invoice of all labor performed and parts installed when the repair is complete. They are also required to return all replaced parts to the consumer (except those exempted by regulation); and perform all repairs competently. The law prohibits false or misleading advertising, fraud or dishonest dealing, false promises likely to induce the consumer to authorize repairs, willful departure from accepted trade standards, and negligence or incompetence in repairs. The Bureau of Electronic & Appliance Repair (BEAR) requires dealers and repair facilities to register and obtain licensing. Keep in mind, licenses can be obtained simply by paying a fee, and do not necessarily attest to the competency level of it's holder. The BEAR monitors compliance and acts as a regulatory and enforcement agency for licensees. If you do business with an unlicensed service, and experience problems, it may be more difficult to pursue the matter. BEAR would not have jurisdiction, except to repremand them for unlicensed activity. Licensing can be verified online at www.bear.ca.gov., or, give them a call at (916) 574-2069.