EPC and VAt - estate agents

Sarahspangles

I think you've just illustrated the difference between an estimate and a quotation - "About £40 to £50" sounds like an estimate to me. If the precise amount is critical to you in a transaction like this then you need to ask for a fixed price quotation.

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/nireland/consumer_ni/consumer_common_problems_with_service_providers_e/consumer_problems_with_cost_sub_e/quotations_and_estimates.htm

Pinto2013

Thanks for that info and the link to the guide. Very handy.

Actually I had an estimate verbally (40 - 50) but a written quotation of £50.00 which didn't say "+ plus VAT " so I think I was right to take it that 50 was the total cost.

It really isn't the amount that concerns me but the lack of the agent bothering to quote accurately.

I shall definitely check his figures for commission when I sell!

AlexMac

Like you, I get aerated about small peripheral stuff; we lash out hundreds of thou for the gaff itself without a thought, plus stacks more dough on decor, carpets, fittings and fixtures...

then I get ratty as the solicitor charges me 40-odd quid for a CHAPS to the vendor's brief when I only paid £20 to Nationwide to issue an online CHAPs instruction to them! So I cough up and think "Grrr". As I do when they fudge whether Chancel liability cover (at £15) is or isn't still required (I smile and pay up as life's too short!)...

This is why grumpy old men are grumpy

Still, I'm allowed

Sarahspangles

AlexMac wrote: »

I only paid £20 to Nationwide to issue an online CHAPs instruction to them!

When I went into the Nationwide to ask about setting up a CHAPs they said "No, it's easier to use Faster Payments nowadays - you just do multiple lots of £10k to the amount required"....

Temporarily ungrumpy old woman here