Sydney Plumbing Company Suspended Over Alleged Price Gouging of 98-Year-Old War Veteran
A Sydney-based plumbing company has been suspended for 60 days following allegations of price gouging a 98-year-old war veteran, with the NSW Building Commissioner describing the incident as a “low act.”
John Rose, a resident of Sydney’s north shore, claimed he was quoted more than $31,000 to fix his broken toilet, which was later repaired by another tradesman for just $550.
The initial quote was provided by Point Plumbing, which also trades as Dan’s Plumbing and Fergusons Plumbing.
Initial Quote and Investigation
Mr Rose initially agreed to pay $1,200 for a “Jet Blast and CCTV Drain Camera Inspection,” but when that failed to resolve the issue, the company charged him an additional $4,639 to remove the toilet and inspect the blockage.
The company then suggested “remedial works” involving the excavation of a sewer pipe under the home, warning it could involve cutting through concrete, with a quoted cost of $31,475.
Neighbour’s Intervention and Second Opinion
Mr Rose’s neighbour, Paul Nagy, intervened and called off the rest of the job, hiring a second plumber who fixed the problem in under 20 minutes for $550.
This incident led to an investigation by the NSW Building Commission, which has suspended the licences of Australian Trades Pty Ltd, the company behind Point Plumbing, Dan’s Plumbing, and Fergusons Plumbing, as well as its director Charbel Alha, for 60 days.
Official Statement and Consequences
“Building Commission NSW has conducted an investigation into Australian Trades Pty Ltd for offences under the Home Building Act (1989) and the Australian Consumer Law,” said NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard.
“This suspension has been put in place while Australian Trades Pty Ltd and its director, Charbel Alha, have a chance to respond to the findings of our investigation.”
The company’s websites, which have since been shut down “for maintenance,” have been inundated with negative reviews, with customers sharing similar experiences of exorbitant quotes and poor service.