If you’ve ever opened an elevator repair quote and thought, “Is this really necessary?” or “Why is this costing me $18,000?” then you’re not alone.
At The Elevator Consultants, we hear this from clients across all industries, large and small commercial real estate, healthcare, investors, condominium associations, universities, hospitality, and retail. The truth is, most building owners, property managers, and facility engineers aren’t elevator experts. They’re not expected to be. But when a $52,000 part replacement hits your desk or worse, bypasses you entirely and goes straight to procurement, it can be overwhelming. The elevator service companies understand this, and it seems they take advantage of this.
Elevator repair proposals are packed with technical jargon, vague justifications, and, in some cases, inflated pricing or outright double-dipping. This is when a building is in need of an elevator consulting firm.
Real-World Elevator Repair Scenarios (That Could Have Cost Thousands
Let’s look at real, recent examples that highlight why an independent review by an elevator consultant is not just helpful, it’s essential in today’s times for numerous reasons.
Case #1: The Valve That Was Already Replaced
One of our long-standing clients received an absorbent proposal to replace a valve. The elevator service provider claimed the valve had failed and needed immediate replacement.
Because we’ve been working with this client for years, we had detailed maintenance and repair records on file. A quick review showed that this same valve had already been replaced just 12 months ago.
There was no operational issue that would justify another replacement. More importantly, this valve was under warranty and covered. The client has several properties, so they really could not recall or know that this repair was the exact same repair from about a year ago. The client sent us the proposal, and we knew.
Result: We flagged the error, challenged the proposal, and saved our client tens of thousands of dollars in unnecessary work and materials. The client was going to pay for this because the elevator was down, and they were panicking.
Case #2: The Covered Packing Replacement
Another client reached out after receiving a proposal to replace the packing in one of their elevators. The quote wasn’t outrageous , although still expensive, the client wasn’t sure whether it was needed, or whether it was something they were already paying for.
This client had engaged us for an elevator audit a couple of years prior. Even though we weren’t on retainer, we had their contract on file and reviewed it. Sure enough, packing replacement was covered under their existing elevator maintenance agreement. We have a meeting with the client so they can understand their contract and why the packing was included in their existing maintenance service agreement.
Result: The client avoided an unnecessary expense and gained confidence in understanding their contract, and moving forward, we will be reviewing all their invoices.
Case #3: The Cable Swap That Almost Slipped Through
In one of the more aggressive cases, a service provider submitted a cable replacement proposal directly to the client’s procurement department, bypassing operations entirely.
This client works with us through our Elevator Management Program, so we were routinely monitoring maintenance and repairs. We caught the proposal immediately and identified that cables were specifically covered in their full-service contract. The invoices usually go to facilities first and then procurement so this one was unique and procurement almost paid for the cables. Sending the invoice this was b=created confusion and procurement thought since they were receiving the invoice that it was already approved by facilities.
It was a classic example of how some providers attempt to “backdoor” extra charges, hoping the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is approving.
Result: We intercepted the invoice, ensured no payment occurred, and reaffirmed the importance of a centralized, managed process. When an organization has multiple locations it is cost effective to have elevator management.
Why These Mistakes Happen So Often
The problem isn’t that property managers, building engineers or operations are inattentive it’s that they’re not elevator professionals. Most contracts are technical, ambiguous, or structured to favor the elevator service provider. If you’re managing a hospital, retail facility, or any building with elevators your time is spent running operations not decoding vague elevator language or second guessing elevator repair proposals.
And in many cases, the elevator service company isn’t even being deceptive, their internal teams might not even realize what’s covered versus what’s billable. But you’re the one stuck with the bill unless someone’s checking.
How to Know If an Elevator Repair Quote Is Fair
Here’s the truth the only two ways to validate an elevator repair quote is to have it reviewed by an independent elevator consultant or go through your elevator service contract line item by line item to decipher the technical jargon. Most people are successful with the first way.
That doesn’t mean asking your technician to explain it, or searching online to see if the price feels “right.” What you need is someone who can:
- Translate technical elevator language into plain English
- Evaluate whether the repair is truly necessary based on equipment, performance, history, and data
- Verify if the item is already covered under your existing contract
- Benchmark the quote against industry pricing standards
- Identify potential upcharges or repeat work that’s been previously completed
- Advocate on your behalf, not the elevator company’s
That’s what The Elevator Consultants does every day.
The Hidden Value of a Long-Term Elevator Partner
Even if you don’t use our services every month, there’s enormous value in simply having an elevator consultant in your corner.
We retain detailed records, track service history, and understand your equipment as well as your contracts. So when an elevator proposal hits your inbox, whether it’s $5,000 or $500,000, you’re not starting from scratch. You’re not making a guess. You’re making an informed decision with expert backup.
And that kind of support doesn’t just save money it builds trust, reduces downtime, and keeps your elevators running safely and efficiently.
Final Thought: Don’t Pay for What’s Already Covered
If there’s one thing we want every property owner, engineer, and manager to take away from this article, it’s this:
You should never be paying for elevator repairs that are already covered in your contract.
But unless you know exactly what’s in your elevator service agreement and understand the elevator industry inside and out you’re vulnerable.
Don’t take chances. Whether you’re facing a $500 repair or a $500,000 proposal, get an elevator expert involved.
Need Help Reviewing a Repair Proposal?
If you’ve received a quote and you’re unsure if it’s fair, valid, or even necessary, let’s talk.
Contact The Elevator Consultants today and get an expert evaluation before you sign anything.
Visit our website to learn more about our repair audits, maintenance contract reviews, and elevator management solutions.
Elevator Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if an elevator repair is really needed?
Unless you’re an elevator technician or consultant, it’s extremely difficult to determine whether a proposed repair is necessary. Some elevator service providers may recommend repairs prematurely or misdiagnose issues, or just make a guess. The best approach is to have an independent elevator consultant review the quote based on service history, equipment condition, and contractual obligations.
What kinds of repairs are typically covered under my elevator maintenance contract?
This varies depending on the type of elevator service agreement (e.g., full-service vs. oil & grease), but commonly covered items may include:
- Hydraulic valves
- Packing replacements
- Door equipment
- Cables/ropes
- Routine adjustments and minor parts
The only way to know for sure is to have someone familiar with elevator contract language audit your agreement and service proposals.
Why do elevator companies submit repair quotes for items covered under contract?
Sometimes it’s due to miscommunication within the elevator company. Other times, it may be intentional, especially when proposals are sent directly to procurement, bypassing operations or property managers. It’s critical to have someone watching the flow of quotes and approvals to prevent unnecessary spending.
What should I do when I get a repair quote I don’t understand?
- Don’t approve it right away.
- Send it to your elevator consultant for review.
- Ask:
- Is the elevator repair necessary?
- Is this covered in our elevator current service agreement?
- Is the price fair compared to elevator industry standards?
- Get clarification in writing from the elevator service provider if needed.
How much can I save by having an elevator consultant review my repair quotes?
Clients routinely save thousands, sometimes tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars by avoiding unnecessary or double-billed repairs. In one recent case, a client avoided a $70,000 charge for a part that had already been replaced and was still under warranty. It really depends on your situation.
What’s the difference between an elevator consultant and an elevator service provider?
An elevator service provider handles both maintenance and repairs, with a financial interest in selling those services. In contrast, an elevator consultant such as The Elevator Consultants remains independent; we do not perform the work. Our role is to ensure you receive the services you need, avoid unnecessary charges, and have a true advocate on your side.
Can The Elevator Consultants help if I’m not currently on a service plan with you?
Yes. Even if you haven’t retained us recently, if we’ve worked with you in the past, we may still have your records on file. And even if you’re new to us, we can quickly review your contract, history, and repair quote to help you make an informed decision.