Agreed 100%. That's why I am here too,

To clarify my statement, it was directed at the auto mechanic not at you.

 

I would say never take your car to this “reputable mechanic “....I’m not a pro but , I drink and I know stuff...lol.

 

An easier alternative to a leak down test, is a vacuum test.
Most machine shops that do head work will have a vacuum tester.
All 3 of my Buddies that have automotive machine shops have vacuum testers.
No cylinder head leaves the shop without being Vac tested on every port.
You should never be able to hear air escaping past the valves when turning an engine over by hand.