adamk95•2mo agoMost Upvoted

Update: My cousin's fridge repair bill sparked a big debate at home

My cousin called last month with a fridge making weird noises, and I went over to check it out. I found a faulty fan motor and replaced it, then gave him a bill for the part and a small fee for my time. He got mad, saying family should never charge each other for help. I see that side, since doing favors can keep relationships strong. But I also think my skills pay my bills, and giving free work too often hurts my business. I've heard other repairers say they always charge something, even if it's just for parts, to show their work has value. Others say they fix things for free for close family to avoid hard feelings. Where do you folks stand on this?

3 comments

3 Comments

daniel_green422mo ago

Who covers the part cost? You can't just give away your time and materials. Charging a bit keeps things fair.

bettyroberts2mo ago

Define "fair" though. Does it always mean money changes hands?

the_linda2mo ago

Sure, but who gets to decide what's fair? Is it always about money?