7. There Are Affluence Fees
Many plumbers don’t have fixed hourly rates. This provides them with some flexibility when charging for projects in the wide range of situations they encounter. As you may guess, this doesn’t always work in the homeowner’s favor.
So, if you live in a well-off area, have an expensive car parked out front, or if there are any other signs of wealth, a plumber may assume you’ll be OK with paying more than the average client.
As long as the job is done as promised, this kind of rate-setting isn’t actually a scam, but it can definitely cost you a lot. Some plumbers charge up to even double what they usually do when they feel like the homeowner can afford it.
A little research can be a good trick to avoid that. Before you commit to one guy, ask at least three to take a look at the job you need done and provide an estimate. Any rate that’s significantly higher than the others is suspect.
You may also want to read 7 Expensive Renovations Homeowners ALWAYS Regret.
