Harringay, Haringey - So Good they Spelt it Twice!

Cash or invoice?

A local tradesperson recently did a job for me and quoted a price on the phone in advance. In the phone call, they asked if I’d be paying cash or wanted an invoice and I opted for the latter so as to have a record of the job. However, when the invoice turned up it had an extra 20% added to the quoted price; they’re not VAT-registered, and told me it’s because “an invoice incurs extra charges” when I asked why.

Now we all know how the cash economy works and I’m not trying to be holier-than-thou or moralise; but I’m fed up with the “if you pay me now I’ll send you an invoice” spiel (duh.... ) as there’s obviously no comeback if there’s a problem but no paper trail. In fact, this person’s work was OK and I might want to use them again, but I feel a bit ripped-off all the same. Has anyone else come across this and is it just a fact of life these days?

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by JJ B on May 26, 2017 at 19:33

Really...next time ask for the quote in writing if it is a sum tyou feel merits it. Simples...really!

At least it'll give you something to fall back on instead of a verbal agreement, although the latter still remains a contract.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Don on May 27, 2017 at 10:21

Yes, normally I'd get confirmation in writing (or at least e-mail) but, as these things often are, this was quite urgent and the discussion was by phone. I realise this is still a contract, but if it comes to "you said, I said" then it's pretty difficult to resolve. Not much to do but chalk it up to experience.