Rip off Homebase

BigAl94

Was doing a small DIY plumbing job today, needed a 15mm right angle compression joint and a few olives. Homebase was closest, joint was £4.50 and a pack of 6 olives £4.99, total £ 9.49.

No way I thought, drove a mile and went to Plumb Center, joint £1.28 plus vat, olives 33p plus vat, Grand Total £1.93 including vat!

Posted as a heads up to others.

SnowyOwl_2

If I'd been doing the exact same plumbing job I'd have called a plumber, paid him £30 + VAT and another £20 for the parts, made him a cup of tea and then said thank you when he left.

I take it the olives weren't of the black or green stuffed variety?

Golden_Anemone

PMSL Snowy Owl. :rotfl:

I agree BigAl but I think they and B&Q who are equally as overpriced get away with it for 3 reasons.

1. They're open longer hours so some people find them more convenient;

2. Plumbers and builders merchants can be a bit intimidating to women especially [though I have to say in the 15 or 20 years I've been visiting these places they have improved a lot. :-)]

and

3. most non trades people haven't a clue just how much extra they charge for everything. Not a notion.

lucylucky

If the prices were advertised in what way is it a rip-off?

Some companies charging more than others is simply a matter of business not a rip-off.

(And in your total cost don't forget to add the cost of fuel, general running costs and depreciation on your car;))

JupiterHead

Aye, Halfords is the same. My headlight bulb went a couple of weeks ago, Halfords were looking a tenner for a replacement, but poundland were selling them for two for a pound!

mummysaving_2

This is an eye opener to me and usually yes I just immediately go to B&Q for anything I need. There is a builders yard less than a mile from the house but until 2 years ago I didnt actually realise it was open to the likes of me :O