Plumbing quote

Crowmo

Self renovating the en-suite , got to end and when fitting the towel radiator to copper pipe it cracked and leaked, at level of floor, my fault, oh well. have turned off water and drained radiator system, have removed radiator and the tile removed to allow access. Did call out plumber call out fee 68, after short bit of back and forth turns out needs the damaged pipe cutting clean and a 8mm compression coupler to join on. New 8mm pipe then connecr to the valve for towel radiator, wanted 280 for that on top of call out fee, when attempting to pay call out fee by bank transfer as was told on phone, told that’s cash price and bank transfer to cover VAT 20% extra.
I just paid the call out fee ,

sheenas

Hard to prove if you have nothing in writing. A quote without stating VAT extra, assumes a VAT inclusive price.

[Deleted User]

You absolutely did the right thing telling him to jog on. £280 on top of a £68 call-out to pop a single compression fitting on an already exposed pipe is taking the mickey. The sketchy VAT threat at the end just confirms you made the right call to send him packing.

Since you’ve already done the hard work of draining down the system and lifting the tile, you are 95% of the way there. 8mm microbore copper is a bit fiddly because it bends easily, but fixing this is a very straightforward DIY job if you fancy finishing what you started.

All you need is a mini pipe cutter (about £5), an 8mm straight compression coupler (literally £2), and a tiny tub of jointing compound. You can get the lot at Screwfix for under fifteen quid. Just clean the pipe up, pop the fitting on, use two spanners to tighten it (don't over-tighten on microbore), and you're sorted.

If you do decide you'd rather have a pro do it, call a different local independent. It shouldn't cost you more than £80 to £120 total for a quick repair job like this since there's zero prep work or diagnostic time needed.

Keep the bank transfer receipt for the £68 just in case he tries to hassle you for more, but you'll likely never hear from him again. Good luck finishing the en-suite!