Complaint Review: MJS Mechanical Services

This is a condense version of a very long story. I only wish I could give all of the details. I recently purchased a home (2500+ sq. ft.) in which the air conditioner was working. After several months I began to have problems. I contacted AHS,a technician from MJS Mechanical Services was sent to service the unit. I was told the compressor needed to be replaced and was charged $50.00 in February. I paid the bill by phone using my bank card.

MJS faxed a copy of the findings and recommended upgrades in the amount of $817.00 ($150 to remove the old unit (told I would move myself),$175 Recovery-Freon for new unit,$185 DBConnect/W(brand new part already in place),$125 Slab (3inch slab already in yard), $82 Armor Flex,$100 Inspection Fee and 14 SEER-5 Ton Condensing Unit (the company put in a 10 SEER)and a copy of the receipt for $50. AHS stated they would replace the unit, but had no control over what the sub contractor charged. I requested another company, information on the cash out option and estimated cost of repairs.

The prices were disputed, but MJS said they were required by the city. I contacted various departments of the city. Finally the price was reduced to $357. I still could not figure out why I needed to pay for a new part already installed, a permit and Freon for a new unit. The technician called and stated to forget the $100 for the inspection just pay $257. I still had concerns about the other charges. I got no response.

The company went into my file from February, used my bank card number (in April) without my knowledge or permission and charged me $367.00. I don't mind paying for required good/services, but I don't appreciate being ripped-off and allowing unauthorized use of my bank card.

I hope that American Home Shield does not support this type of behavior from their employees (especially the one that stated they don't make 14 SEER air conditioners and items can only be replaced with what was initially installed-no upgrades) or sub contractors. Please help the innocent victims who are some knowledgable and resourceful. I will send a full description of events to AHS.

Maggie
Houston, Texas
U.S.A.

EDitor's Suggestions on how to get your money back!

HERE IS WHAT RIP-OFF REPORT SUGGESTS YOU DO:

Go to your bank within 60 days of the charge, or as soon as you know about the charge, don't delay, and tell them that there has been fraudulent activity within your account. Explain that you wish to file a dispute, and demand that they assist you in accordance with Federal Regulation E.

According to the majority of victims interviewed by Rip-off Report, those who immediately called their banks to dispute the charges did not get very far. Many victims got the following responses from their banks: we could not do anything for you or you waited too long; it has been more than 60 days.

If the bank is says that you have waited too long, explain to them how you called their 800 number as soon as the charges were found, and were told by the bank that nothing could be done. Remind the bank that they failed to assist you properly at the 800 #, and instead, provided you with an inadequate explanation of your right to dispute. Tell the bank that it's their fault time has expired, and since they gave you the wrong info to begin with, they will just have to deal with it, take the loss and reverse the charges.

Tell them the truth; this was unauthorized and your account was NOT to be charged! Keep emphasizing how you never authorized anything! Direct them to the hundreds of victims reports that were filed on Rip-off Report.com. And if you're at the bank, walk them over to their computer and make them go to this site! If you are on the phone with them, tell them you will wait while they access this site! Either way, be persistent!

DO NOT TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER!

Let them know nicely, that you were advised to Report them (the Bank) and this situation to the Banking Commission in your state. Since each state has a different name for the agency/controller over banks, find that name before you call or get to the bank so you can throw it in their face. The more knowledgeable you appear to be, the further you will get.

And just continue to demand the Federal Regulation E form! The bank CAN, MUST and WILL reverse the charge! But, you must be persistent; ask to speak to the supervisor or the area manager for all the branches in the state.

Let the bank personnel know you are meeting with the media later in the day, that you would much rather they do the right thing (as most other banks have) by looking at the complaints and immediately reversing the charge(s) to your account; no matter how long ago it was. Be sure to call the Media if necessary so you are telling the truth.

If you have to, be loud (but nice) in front of other customers. If you are just calling by phone, the above tactics should still work. The bank can easily fax or mail to you the Federal Regulation E dispute form.

CHARGES TO YOUR CREDIT CARD

If the charge was to your credit card (not debit card, check card, or checking account), contact the credit card company as soon as possible to request a dispute form. Consumers usually have a little longer to dispute fraudulent credit card charges (up to 6 months), but it is better to act right away. In this type of situation, credit card disputes are usually successful since fraudulent companies often won't contest the disputed charge. In rare cases, credit card companies will review disputes, but refuse to reverse the charges. If this occurs, complain to a manager and let them know you will be filing a report here.

Remember Don't let them get away with it! Make sure they make the Rip-off Report .. The more Reports filed on a Company or individual, the more likely it is that the authorities, media and attorneys will want to take action.

And good luck Let us know how you do!

ED Magedson Founder, Rip-off Report.com & Author of www.ripoffrevenge.com
EDitor@RipoffReport.com
badbusinessbureau.com
www.ripoffreport.com

Don't let them get away with it.
Make sure they make the Rip-off Report!

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CLICK HERE to read about Credit Card Scams... find out how to get your money back. *Rip-off Report Investigation provides valuable information.