Other emergency service

Other emergency — Taiwan

A jammed roller shutter, a broken window to make safe, a garage door that will not open, a roof leak, storm damage or a fallen piece of furniture: some emergencies are not among the listed services. On Helplease, you describe your needs and the workers offering this service in Taiwan are notified of your request.

What the service covers

• jammed roller shutter or blind;
• broken window to make safe;
• blocked garage door or gate;
• roof leak or infiltration;
• making safe after damage.

Before choosing this service, check whether a more specific one exists: plumber, electrician, locksmith, water heater or drain unblocking. Otherwise, describe the situation, what has already been switched off or made safe and the real level of urgency.

Key points

Make safe before repairing

The first move is to get people out of harm's way: turn off the water, gas or power to the affected area, keep children and animals away, and do not attempt a repair that requires qualifications. If the situation directly threatens people — fire, gas smell, collapse, electric shock — call the emergency services before anything else: a worker is not an emergency service.

Quote and vigilance in an emergency

An emergency call-out is still a service that can be discussed: ask for the estimated amount before the work starts, a detailed invoice at the end, and refuse to sign a document you have not read. Be wary of anyone piling up unjustified replacements, demanding immediate cash payment or refusing to put their estimate in writing. The worker must be qualified for the work concerned.

What affects the price

• nature of the fault;
• timing: day, night, weekend;
• parts to replace;
• difficulty of access;
• length of the call-out.

The rate is agreed with the worker based on these elements.

Frequently asked questions

How soon can someone come?

Depending on availability; state the real urgency and the exact address in your request.

Should I turn off the water, gas or power first?

Yes, as soon as there is a risk; that is the first useful step.

Is a quote given beforehand?

Ask for the estimate before the work starts and a detailed invoice at the end.

What information should I give?

The nature of the problem, how long it has been going on, the floor, access, a photo if possible and a reachable number.