CHARGING FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES DURING LOCKDOWN
I had to contact a plumbing/gasfitting co. as my gas cooktop stopped functioning, it seemed that the gas was not getting through to the burners to enable them to ignite.
I contacted a company that stated that a $250.00 "DEPOSIT" had to be in their bank account prior to them sending out a technician. This I complied with and the technician duly arrived and sorted the problem in minutes, he didn't use any tools and no parts were needed.
It seemed fair to me that a "DEPOSIT" which I prefer to call a "BOND" was asked for as security, as it is obvious that until the technician arrives on the job and diagnosis the problem it is unknown as to what the actual problem is, therefore what is involved in rectifying the situation. It could be a large, time-consuming job needing a lot of parts, etc which obviously would incur extra cost above the $250.00 "DEPOSIT", but in other cases such as mine to charge $250.00 "DEPOSIT" is in my mind excessive. The online invoice had no details just a sum plus GST to arrive at the $250.00 total.
It was not explained to me on the phone or subsequent emails what the $250.00 "DEPOSIT" covered or what it actually was. There was no mention of this on any of their correspondence. If this was a minimum charge regardless, during this lockdown it should have been clearly spelled out and if not I see it as a breach of The Fair Trading Act or the Consumer Act or some other consumer protection act.
I will be interested to know other opinions or in fact anyone who has actual legal knowledge of this situation.
Thank you.
Handy gardener wanted with large chainsaw
Just needing a small job topping small hedges chain sawing. I’ve done most of the hedges however not the power saw that can cut through the branches I can’t.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5.1% Second half of November
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43.1% 1st December
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17% A week before Christmas
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33.3% Whenever you wish
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
Spring spruce up
Spring is the season of new beginnings and the perfect time to declutter and refresh your home. Imagine stepping into a space that feels open, organised, and filled with only what truly matters. Whether you’re looking to simplify your life, want to downsize, or just enjoy a more comfortable living space, decluttering is a great way to start.
With these expert tips from decluttering and organising specialist Peter Walsh, you can take small steps toward a clutter-free home that you’ll love spending time in.
Click read more for more article.
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