Not responsible for lost or stolen items

This message was on a sign posted in the shop where I took my truck to have some work done this week. What effect did this sign have on my experience? I had to clear everything of value out of my truck and move it into my tiny loaner car because they couldn’t assure me that my vehicle and it’s contents would be secure in their care.

It’s a sign we see all the time, so often that it’s become the standard. A norm we’ve resigned ourselves to accept since we rarely have any other option. Thank you litigation!

Seems like a tough sell, though. You want me to trust you enough to do business with you, but you advertise that I can’t count on you or your employees to treat my belongings with respect while I do business with you.

How about this for a disclaimer: We take full responsibility for the work we do, and the effects of that work on the people we do business with. We want to be known for the experience people have when they work with us, because our only standard is excellence. Your project, your home, and your trust are in good hands when you do business with us.

That’s the kind of company I like to do business with. Let’s make that the new standard.