Do u think i was conned by the plumber?

Question

my pipes was choked, when i called he say it'll cost 20-30dollars, then when he came here, he told me as the location of my pipes and severity of the case, he need a special machine to do it, that is $180, i agreed. After he is done, he asked for another $100 for service fee. Total $280 for 5mins of work??? i'm still so mad at him and can't kept crying. I couldn't do anything cos he is already in my bedroom and i was home alone with my babies. Can I report him? but the problem is, I got his number from the classified section, no company name it seems. How silly of me.....still mad at myself. $280 is a lot of money.

Answer 1

Yes.Try the NTUC Income Home Services the next time if you need any home services.I have used their home services many times.

NTUC Income Home Services provides you with a comprehensive one-stop hassle-free solution to all your home problems.Whether you are looking for a reliable plumber,a person to run errand or a tutor to improve your child's grades in school,you will be able to find someone reliable to provide the service here.

For a non-obligatory assessment, call our 24-hour hotline staff at 6788 8788 for assistance.We will SMS the service provider to call you within the stipulated time to arrange for an appointment.

We give you the peace of mind with a 90-day warranty for jobs referred through Home Services.

Repair & Maintenance

Aircon

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Curtain

Electrical

Furniture

House Cleaning *

House Painting

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PC Support

Pest Control

Plumbing

Refrigerator

Renovation

Sofa Upholstery

Television

Washing Machine

Water Heater



    

Others *

Funeral Assistance

Health Screening

House Moving

Tuition



* 90-day warranty does not apply.

Answer 2

Well, take it as you have done your duty as a wife and mother to keep the house in orderly manner.

If you are a foreigner in Singapore, I suggest for everything you going to pay for, first ask how they are going to charge and most importantly, ask if there are any receipt at the end of the service (receipt must bare company name and with readable handwriting).

Otherwise, you can always consult your neighbours who are locals or at least stay in Singapore long enough to help you.  

Answer 3

is he from china? if he is then dont bother feeling sad cos every prc does that everyday to everyone.

Answer 4

Yes. Plumbers are notorious for charging exorbitant fees.

What is this special machine?  It is part of his tool as a plumber. He shouldn't charge you.

In any case, as in other transactions. Always confirm what is the final price before you proceed so that there is no added costs later.

Answer 5

Forgive yourself and cheer up.  He asked for $180 and you agreed.  This is the actual payment for the work he has done.   What happened to you lately, you charge it to your experience. Since he was the teacher who taught you a lesson, he deserved to receive the $100.  

Remember, learn from your mistakes from now on.   Never ever close the deal or give approval to proceed without knowing the scope of work to be done and the final total amount to be paid.