Can a dentist quote you a price for work before the procedure starts, then when they are done charge you more than the quote?
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Can a dentist quote you a price for work before the procedure starts, then when they are done charge you more than the quote?
Asked on September 3, 2014 under Business Law, Missouri
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
It depends on the following:
1) Was the quote a firm one, in writing, that they agreed to honor; or was it just an informal "this is what it usually costs"? In the former case, it may be enforceable (see below); but in the latter case, it was just informational and not binding.
2) Even if it was a firm quote, did the quote contain any terms or clauses that would let the cost increase in certain circumstances (such as if additional problems that had to be corrected were found); if so, such terms or clauses are legal, so increases may be proper.
Note that even if this was an absolutely firm written estimate with no exceptions, the dentist will not voluntarily honor it, you'd have to sue to enforce it, which may or may not be worthwhile.
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