People frequently misunderstand the charges for service calls at their home resulting in upset or angry customers. No doubt there are cases of overcharge, but on the other hand many people do not realize the factors involved in an honest charge. These charges are not determined solely on the time to make the repairs. From the standpoint of a service department, its cost, except for the time on the job, could be about the same for a simple job of replacing a fuse as it is for a difficult job. 

What is included in the calculation of the cost of a service call?

Good service doesn't "just happen!"  Operating a dependable service business requires organization, competent service technicians and support staff as well as substantial capital investment. So don't judge service charges solely on the time spent in your home. When that top-notch technician knocks on your door, many costs have been incurred jut to get him there, ready to do the job. Here are some of them: