When your washing machine needs repair, one of the first costs you’ll encounter is the call-out fee. This fee covers the engineer’s travel, initial inspection, and diagnosis, but many homeowners are unclear about what it includes and how it affects overall repair costs.
What a Call-Out Fee Covers
The call-out fee is charged to cover the engineer’s travel and time spent inspecting your washing machine. In the UK, typical fees range from £40 to £80. Some engineers include a short period of labour (usually 20–30 minutes) in this fee, while others charge separately for any work beyond the inspection.
Factors Affecting Call-Out Fees
- Time of day: Evening, weekend, or holiday visits often cost more.
- Location: Travel distance and urban traffic can influence the fee.
- Urgency: Emergency or same-day repairs attract higher charges.
- Washing machine type: Built-in or hard-to-access units may increase labour costs.
How Call-Out Fees Affect Overall Costs
The call-out fee is often non-refundable, but some engineers deduct it from the total cost if the repair is carried out. For example, a £60 call-out fee, £80 labour, and £50 parts would total £190. Understanding this structure ensures you can compare quotes accurately.
Tips to Reduce Call-Out Costs
- Provide a detailed description of the fault before the visit.
- Include the make and model so the engineer can bring suitable parts.
- Ask if the call-out fee is deducted from the final repair cost.
- Compare multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing.
When Paying a Call-Out Fee Is Worth It
Paying a call-out fee guarantees that a qualified engineer will safely inspect and diagnose your washing machine. Cheaper services may not provide accurate diagnostics or use quality parts, which could result in recurring faults and higher costs. For further guidance on total repair costs, see washing machine repair costs and why repair quotes vary.
Conclusion
Understanding washing machine repair call-out fees helps UK homeowners plan for costs, avoid surprises, and choose reliable, professional engineers. Always request a clear, itemised quote to know exactly what you are paying for.