Three Towns Forum

The Local => Local Businesses => Topic started by: Yorkie on November 08, 2012, 08:02:11 am

Title: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on November 08, 2012, 08:02:11 am
Most of us will have seen one of the TV exposure programs such as Rip Off Britain, Rogue Traders etc.  and are appalled at what we see and what some traders and service companies can get away with.  No doubt some of us have had a bad experience with builders, plumbers, electricians and the like, but have not got any satisfaction when a complaint has been made.

This Forum could be our platform to highlight bad workmanship or poor service in the Three Towns.   What do others think?
 $thanx$

Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 08, 2012, 08:41:08 am
It would be very risky to list bad comments without being 100 per cent sure of the facts, seems much safer to just list the good ones.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: DaveR on November 08, 2012, 09:25:08 am
It would be very risky to list bad comments without being 100 per cent sure of the facts, seems much safer to just list the good ones.
That's true, it would be very easy for someone with a grudge against a particular trader to write poor reviews.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Blongb on December 08, 2012, 08:03:01 pm
It would be very risky to list bad comments without being 100 per cent sure of the facts, seems much safer to just list the good ones.
That's true, it would be very easy for someone with a grudge against a particular trader to write poor reviews.

Quite right Dave, that's why in our trade we have no faith in sites like TripAdvisor   >:(
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Nemesis on December 08, 2012, 08:38:42 pm
It would be very risky to list bad comments without being 100 per cent sure of the facts, seems much safer to just list the good ones.
That's true, it would be very easy for someone with a grudge against a particular trader to write poor reviews.

Quite right Dave, that's why in our trade we have no faith in sites like TripAdvisor   >:(

Well said-- you only need another person in the same trade to make a bad comment and it goes against you. There are no checks as to whether the person concerned has actually availed himself of your services, or if indeed he is just being nasty.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 08, 2012, 08:52:22 pm
I would say don't believe any over the top extremely good or bad reviews, the ones in the middle seem to me to be the real ones.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on December 08, 2012, 09:33:58 pm
It would be very risky to list bad comments without being 100 per cent sure of the facts, seems much safer to just list the good ones.
That's true, it would be very easy for someone with a grudge against a particular trader to write poor reviews.

And what about the businesses that write glowing reviews about themselves?   It is possible to have comments on Trip Advisor checked out if you are unhappy with them, whether they are good or bad.   ZXZ
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: DaveR on December 09, 2012, 09:08:15 am
You can always post the fake reviews, good or bad. The writers generally only post 1 or 2 reviews, don't fill out their profile, and never include any personal information. If you follow that advice, Trip Advisor and similar sites are pretty useful.
Title: Watch batteries
Post by: Yorkie on June 25, 2013, 08:35:49 pm
It's not often one needs to change a watch battery, but sometimes the cost can come as a bit of a shock.
Took my other half's wrist watch into Goldsmiths and was told it would be £7.99 to supply and fit, so I said, "No thanks!"
Went into Gregory's, job done for £4.95.  Lesson learned.   ;D
Title: Re: Watch batteries
Post by: Mikethewatch on June 25, 2013, 09:53:41 pm
It's not often one needs to change a watch battery, but sometimes the cost can come as a bit of a shock.
Took my other half's wrist watch into Goldsmiths and was told it would be £7.99 to supply and fit, so I said, "No thanks!"
Went into Gregory's, job done for £4.95.  Lesson learned.   ;D
Same make of battery seals checked  etc......
Its possible to get the job done for a lot less if you are prepared to accept a cheap Chinese cell that may well leak and wreck the watch, not a bargain then is it?
Title: Re: Watch batteries
Post by: Yorkie on June 26, 2013, 08:23:45 am

Same make of battery seals checked  etc......
Its possible to get the job done for a lot less if you are prepared to accept a cheap Chinese cell that may well leak and wreck the watch, not a bargain then is it?

Gregory's is a reputable Jeweller that has been established for many years.  Being local with more than the one branch, I would expect them to be concious of the sort of service they give to they customers.  I have every confidence in what I received and paid for and consider that your comment is a sideways slight at the service they give.  I have always been happy with the service and attention they have given me and my relatives over the years.

Never had a problem with a watch battery yet and they seem to last for years, whether they may have been Chinese or not.
Title: Watch batteries
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 26, 2013, 09:41:40 am
Yorkie, I certainly didn’t read Mike’s comment as a slur on the service of the retail shop who eventually replaced your battery for you.

Mikethewatch has a vast amount of experience in this area and I read his comment as to what forum members might expect to receive from purchasing cheap batteries from other dubious sources.

Title: Re: Watch batteries
Post by: Yorkie on June 26, 2013, 09:59:47 am
Yorkie, I certainly didn’t read Mike’s comment as a slur on the service of the retail shop who eventually replaced your battery for you.

Mikethewatch has a vast amount of experience in this area and I read his comment as to what forum members might expect to receive from purchasing cheap batteries from other dubious sources.

Perhaps if the comment had been expressed in a slightly different way, then there would be no confusion in my mind.  Apologies if I took it the wrong way.   :D

The majority of electrical equipment in most homes today emanates from China and their success is possibly an indication that they must be doing something right.   We cannot rubbish their products now as we did in the past.   Must also bear in mind that there is also a load of poor quality British goods!
   $uk
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on June 26, 2013, 11:42:56 am
Perhaps Mikethewatch would like to expand on his comment as I, too, read it as denigration of Gregory's.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Mikethewatch on June 26, 2013, 08:00:47 pm
No slur was intended against Gregorys or any other jeweller and is mischievous to suggest such was my intention !
Title: Re: Watch batteries
Post by: craigollerton on June 26, 2013, 09:05:28 pm
Yorkie, I certainly didn’t read Mike’s comment as a slur on the service of the retail shop who eventually replaced your battery for you.

Mikethewatch has a vast amount of experience in this area and I read his comment as to what forum members might expect to receive from purchasing cheap batteries from other dubious sources.

Perhaps if the comment had been expressed in a slightly different way, then there would be no confusion in my mind.  Apologies if I took it the wrong way.   :D

The majority of electrical equipment in most homes today emanates from China and their success is possibly an indication that they must be doing something right.   We cannot rubbish their products now as we did in the past.   Must also bear in mind that there is also a load of poor quality British goods!
   $uk

Very true and well said Yorkie!

I worked in quality assurance for a major UK importer whose goods were primarily sourced from China and Asia. All goods are sample inspected when they arrive in the country, prior to shipment, samples are received by the importer and checked for quality. Take a typical garden chair for example, the wood has to be a certain thickness, a certain density, treated for pests, tested to meet all the BS and EU safety standards. The wood must have traceability, and be sustainably and ethically sourced, the workers paid a minimum hourly wage or realistic piece work rate. Now that doesn't mean the Chinese don't pull the wool over our eyes from time to time, but anything brought into the UK legally rests on the importers/suppliers shoulders, a dodgy transformer from a Christmas tree that hasn't been safety passed in the UK that could burn someone's house down, or a settee with banned azo dyes which could burn the skin, such issues are less commonplace these days.

Having travelled the world somewhat last year, I found myself in Papua New Guinea. It was interesting to see the differing quality of goods in a typical hardware store over there. The goods were more expensive, yet lesser quality, a metal bedframe for example in the UK must meet a minimum material thickness for strength, I recall the example I looked at being very thin, and the powder coating paint flaked badly. I think it just went to show all-in-all we can expect better quality of imported goods over here due to legislation and quality assurance practiced by those who supply the major retail corporations in this country.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on June 27, 2013, 12:49:42 am
In my time of dealing with the Chinese, (over approx 15 years), I found the manufacturers and exporters to be of the highest integrity.
In fact, the biggest fear of a Chinese businessman is to 'lose face', so they are very conscientious.

This however did not extend to the Customs officials.
If the quota of a certain type of goods had expired for the year, then it was quite simple (and relatively inexpensive) to persuade Chinese customs officers that what was in these cartons was something slightly different to what was written on the documentation!

It is amazing how often knitwear became woven shirts, or tailored jackets mysteriously turned into swimwear!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on June 27, 2013, 07:13:08 am
Quote
No slur was intended against Gregorys or any other jeweller and is mischievous to suggest such was my intention !

Thank you for the elucidation, but are you now suggesting that either of us who misread your comment were doing so to cause trouble?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on June 27, 2013, 08:48:30 am
Isn't the World a wonderful place, and all the people in it wonderful too?

Just think what power one minute watch battery has, and what argument and discussion it can cause!

I must buy another just to check the origins of these little beasties, and to look at it admiringly whenever I get the opportunity - this will be for my eyes only and it will never adorn the insides of any timepiece casing!

This is a Renata, Swiss Watch Battery - maybe Made in China despite the stamped ID!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on September 25, 2013, 10:06:47 am
The time has come for me to replace all four tyres on my car.   Instead of using my normal supplier I thought I would use a local supplier for a change.  I popped along to the local branch of a national tyre company and got a quote.  After all the discounts I could negotiate the price came to over £370.

I then checked with my usual company and have a price of £230, a massive £140 cheaper.  This does include £20 extra discount due to my car club membership.

The tyres  are the same manufacturer, same specification and rating and includes new valves, fitting and balancing and disposal of the old tyres.   As I am fussy about my cars shoes you may rest assured that nothing is left to chance.

The company I use is Event Tyres (their name explains it all), contactable at www.event-tyres.co.uk (http://www.event-tyres.co.uk), tel 0800 810 0972.  The other useful aspect is that one does not have to go to the garage as all the work is done from their mobile workshop at your own home.  And as added security you do not pay anything until the work is completed.   

Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on September 25, 2013, 10:57:00 am
Quote
The company I use is Event Tyres

They're an excellent outfit. Furthermore, Kwik Fit will always match their prices, BTW...
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on September 25, 2013, 11:40:58 am
Quote
The company I use is Event Tyres

They're an excellent outfit. Furthermore, Kwik Fit will always match their prices, BTW...

I don't agree with "Price Matching".  It just means that other people are subsidising your purchase, e.g. Being ripped off.  If a company can't give you their best price to stsrt with, they don't deserve your custom!    ZXZ
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 25, 2013, 12:16:25 pm
Fair point.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: SDQ on September 25, 2013, 04:26:13 pm
I've always used Keith at the Tyre Centre on Builder Street as I like to support local businesses.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Jack on September 25, 2013, 04:46:51 pm
I've always used Keith at the Tyre Centre on Builder Street as I like to support local businesses.

I agree, he is always cheaper than the nationals and a top bloke to boot!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on September 25, 2013, 05:12:37 pm
I've always used Keith at the Tyre Centre on Builder Street as I like to support local businesses.

I agree, he is always cheaper than the nationals and a top bloke to boot!

I have used him myself in the past and found the service very good, but having to spread the pension out makes one that little bit more price conscious.   ;D
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Tosh on September 25, 2013, 06:56:22 pm
The last time I needed tyres I used Hi-Q in Woodland Road East Colwyn Bay, very efficient and reasonably priced.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Gwynant on September 25, 2013, 07:47:25 pm
                    I've always used Keith too, even back to when he had a garage next to the Petrol Station on the old Llandudno ASDA site . I have always found him to be very competitive pricewise, (also with batteries), and also when Mrs. Gwynant clouted a kerb a few years ago, he checked the  tracking and as it was OK and needed no adjustment, he said there was no charge, and as previous people have said, he is a "top bloke".
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Bellringer on September 25, 2013, 08:19:43 pm
As a user of Keith's business for several years, I too would recommend it, and endorse the favourable comments made by others on here.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Paulakelsall on September 25, 2013, 11:29:21 pm
My husband and I always use Keith (Tyre Centre, Builder Street, Llandudno) - never go anywhere else.  He is as honest as the day is long!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on September 26, 2013, 12:20:33 am
I use Chris Knowles's Garage at West Shore.... he has given me great service and prices for the last few years.  :)
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on September 26, 2013, 11:58:53 am
Sorry I mentioned it now!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: born2run on September 26, 2013, 12:31:28 pm
I use Chris Knowles's Garage at West Shore.... he has given me great service and prices for the last few years.  :)

Whilst you're recommending local businesses Fester, do you know of anyone in the Penmaenmawr area who is good at repairing fences?  :P
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on September 27, 2013, 12:53:54 am
I use Chris Knowles's Garage at West Shore.... he has given me great service and prices for the last few years.  :)

Whilst you're recommending local businesses Fester, do you know of anyone in the Penmaenmawr area who is good at repairing fences?  :P

Now thereby hangs a tale...
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Hugo on October 11, 2013, 02:27:24 pm
It makes me mad thinking about the latest inflation busting price hike of 8.2 per cent by SSE,  with more of the big energy companies likely to follow suite in the very near future.
I remember a prices and incomes policy years ago when companies had to give an acceptable account of the reasons why the increase in prices should exceed the level of inflation.  This government is not interested in controlling prices and all it does is reiterate time and time again  that you can always change supplier to get the best deal.
It's time they started doing something positive instead.
I am a customer of SSE but the increase won't affect me as I've signed up foe a two year deal and the price of energy for me has been frozen for that time.   Why can't every customer have that same benefit?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on October 11, 2013, 04:05:42 pm
Renationalise with efficient management!

Sorry, forgot we don't have sufficient money to buy it back!    :D
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on October 11, 2013, 11:02:28 pm
It makes me mad thinking about the latest inflation busting price hike of 8.2 per cent by SSE,  with more of the big energy companies likely to follow suite in the very near future.
I remember a prices and incomes policy years ago when companies had to give an acceptable account of the reasons why the increase in prices should exceed the level of inflation.  This government is not interested in controlling prices and all it does is reiterate time and time again  that you can always change supplier to get the best deal.
It's time they started doing something positive instead.
I am a customer of SSE but the increase won't affect me as I've signed up foe a two year deal and the price of energy for me has been frozen for that time.   Why can't every customer have that same benefit?

The cost of these monstrous and unproven wind turbines is now directly finding its way into consumers lives!
Have you seen how BAD it now looks across Llandudno Bay?   
The worst fears of those who said it would look terrible were well founded.  &shake& &shake& &shake&
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on October 12, 2013, 09:00:06 am
Quote
The cost of these monstrous and unproven wind turbines is now directly finding its way into consumers lives!

Think I'll wait for the proper figures on that one.


Quote
Have you seen how BAD it now looks across Llandudno Bay?   
The worst fears of those who said it would look terrible were well founded.

That's a 'beauty is in the eye..' argument.  I find them hypnotically fascinating.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on October 12, 2013, 05:55:54 pm
Ian said, "That's a 'beauty is in the eye..' argument.  I find them hypnotically fascinating."

Personally, I think a few more, a strong wind and the lot will take off for the Moon!   :D
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on October 13, 2013, 11:22:21 pm
Quote
The cost of these monstrous and unproven wind turbines is now directly finding its way into consumers lives!

Think I'll wait for the proper figures on that one.


Quote
Have you seen how BAD it now looks across Llandudno Bay?   
The worst fears of those who said it would look terrible were well founded.

That's a 'beauty is in the eye..' argument.  I find them hypnotically fascinating.

Ian, with so much in terms of politics governing this, what makes you think you will ever see 'proper' figures?

Also, are you really saying that you think that the view out into Llandudno Bay has not been seriously ruined?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on October 14, 2013, 08:34:06 am
Quote
Ian, with so much in terms of politics governing this, what makes you think you will ever see 'proper' figures?

:-))  Good question. Which is precisely why we can't make definitive statements as to how the cost is being met. One thing I know, however, and that is that we cannot simply continue to burn fossil fuels as though there's no tomorrow.  We have to start using the sun's energies in ways that don't contribute to atmospheric pollution. And that means tidal, wind and direct solar energy.

Quote
Also, are you really saying that you think that the view out into Llandudno Bay has not been seriously ruined?

Some will think it has, but others delight in the appearance of slowly turning mills and something on which they can focus. And it's worth remembering that we - as a democracy - have a choice: we can lobby our MPs to support the building of many more Nuclear plants, or - alternatively - we can stop using the myriad devices that consume electricity.  It's also worth remembering that electricity and its distribution is a relatively recent phenomenon. Not that many generations back our relatives would have wondered what we're talking about. The problem is that our society (and the rest of the world) has now become totally reliant on the stuff, which is one reason why privatising water and electricity was short-sighted. Of course, if you're a free-market advocate then this situation is to be expected.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: DaveR on October 14, 2013, 10:11:31 am
I think that the 'Glas Cymru' ownership structure is a good one for utility companies to follow:
http://www.dwrcymru.com/en/company-information/glas-cymru.aspx (http://www.dwrcymru.com/en/company-information/glas-cymru.aspx)
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 14, 2013, 10:51:27 am
Agreed, it may surprise people that know me, but I've always thought that the utilities should remain state owned, but run efficiently. Royal Mail too! I'm all for business's making good profits and paying dividends to shareholders (thanks GVC  $good$ ) but in spite of the so called competition in the power market, there are no bargains to be had, I've never swapped suppliers, too much hassle!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on October 14, 2013, 03:28:22 pm
Quote
I think that the 'Glas Cymru' ownership structure is a good one for utility companies to follow:

Indeed it is.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: DaveR on October 14, 2013, 05:13:44 pm
I believe even Maggie Thatcher said that the Royal Mail was one thing that should never be privatised.  :o
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Michael on October 14, 2013, 08:58:54 pm
   Fester, are you one of the brigade who threatened that the windfarm would damage the tourist trade.

   O.K. a bit of challenge. Find me one, JUST ONE, person who thought he or she might like a holiday in Llandudno. But changed their mind because they didn't like looking out in binoculars on a sunny day and might, if they were lucky, see a wind farm.

    A bit of verification of course. Not just someone who is saying this but had no real intention of coming in the first place.

     Mike

   P.s. Fester, have you thought that every now and then you will get an occasional walker on the pier that wants to have a better look at it?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: snowcap on October 14, 2013, 09:26:14 pm
I wonder what our ancestors thought of the ugly pylons carrying thick wires across the country side, all taken for granted now, as our great grand children will take wind farms for granted in the years to come, they will just be another overlooked eye sore.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Minime on October 14, 2013, 10:55:53 pm
My 5 year old loves them, she thinks they're windmills :)
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on October 16, 2013, 01:14:37 am
   Fester, are you one of the brigade who threatened that the windfarm would damage the tourist trade.

   O.K. a bit of challenge. Find me one, JUST ONE, person who thought he or she might like a holiday in Llandudno. But changed their mind because they didn't like looking out in binoculars on a sunny day and might, if they were lucky, see a wind farm.

    A bit of verification of course. Not just someone who is saying this but had no real intention of coming in the first place.

     Mike

   P.s. Fester, have you thought that every now and then you will get an occasional walker on the pier that wants to have a better look at it?

As to the latter,  no Mike, I have never come across that.

As to the former, I have countless examples of regular visitors who believe the view of the bay has been ruined by the tubines, and ''may'' stop coming in the future.  Isn't that the same thing or even worse?

Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Michael on October 16, 2013, 08:38:23 pm
  Hi-ya Fester me ol' pal.

   Now you are a man as strikes me as not being backward when there is a chance of making a bob or two out of a business venture.

   So, how about this?

   Anchored out in Llandudno bay, this very minute, is a ship riding the storm. It has on its side painted "FLOATING HOTEL." Its connected with the wind farm. Its been around before, I remember Hugo writing about it. I imagine it houses the hundreds who are employed on the wind farm and moves them from site to site, and gives them a bit of a bed t.v. etc in time off.

   So, how about you and me waiting to the end of the contract, then buying this boat and away we go.

  Windfarm coastal tours, off Llandudno pier, get a close look at this engineering masterpiece.

   We cannot fail.   With your business skills and my seafaring knowledge (I was in the Sea Scouts for two years) we cannot fail.

Mike
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: norman08 on October 16, 2013, 10:02:17 pm
good idea mike ,but it is already done down great yarmouth ,and yes the tours do well.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: born2run on October 16, 2013, 10:30:13 pm
  Hi-ya Fester me ol' pal.

   Now you are a man as strikes me as not being backward when there is a chance of making a bob or two out of a business venture.

   So, how about this?

   Anchored out in Llandudno bay, this very minute, is a ship riding the storm. It has on its side painted "FLOATING HOTEL." Its connected with the wind farm. Its been around before, I remember Hugo writing about it. I imagine it houses the hundreds who are employed on the wind farm and moves them from site to site, and gives them a bit of a bed t.v. etc in time off.

   So, how about you and me waiting to the end of the contract, then buying this boat and away we go.

  Windfarm coastal tours, off Llandudno pier, get a close look at this engineering masterpiece.

   We cannot fail.   With your business skills and my seafaring knowledge (I was in the Sea Scouts for two years) we cannot fail.

Mike

Fester is the worst treasurer of all time!  :o have to buy our own cheese butties and dartboard because of his negotiation skills  $angry$
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on October 16, 2013, 10:58:57 pm
Ha ha ... Mike, first of all, the vessel in Llandudno Bay is nothing to do with the wind farm.
Instead it is a temporary lodging for some divers who are here to clear the area underneath the Pier Landing Stage.
Apparently there is so much rubbish, (and even a sizeable chunk of the pier) just off the end that the steamers would have insufficient draught to dock.
Local fisherman will also be delighted as they lose so much expensive tackle and have endless snags to cut free.

Born to Run, your left-wing ranting holds no concern for me.  :laugh:
I think you will find that it is a treasurers job to do three things.
1, Ensure sufficient funds are raised.
2, Ensure bills and outgoings are met,
3, Ensure the monies are safe, and a healthy balance maintained.

Seeing as I deprived you of your subscriptions last night, and still hold them in my sticky mitts, I would say that I am doing a hell of a job,   D) D)

Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Michael on October 17, 2013, 08:44:19 pm
   All I can say is its a bloody big ship for a few divers.   How few?  A couple of hundred?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: DaveR on October 17, 2013, 09:31:54 pm
I don't believe it is anything to do with Divers - why would they need to live on a ship at vast expense? They could stay in town like the MP Marine guys do and just lower themselves into the pier from the Landing Stage. Someone is pulling your plonker, Fester.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on October 17, 2013, 11:11:42 pm
I think we are talking about different vessels.

A small vessel was moored in Llandudno Bay for 2 nights, and at first I thought it was the Prince Madoc, (the survey ship from Menai Bridge).  But the vessel was too small to be that.

Instead, I was told by the MP Marine workers that it was for a team of divers to work on Tuesday and Wednesday, to clear the sea bed of debris.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: snowcap on October 18, 2013, 12:00:27 am
I stood watching them prepair for the dive this afternoon and watched the other workers putting a landing platform support into place.It is a very busy place and if they get the weather we had today they should be able to get it finished soon.There were two divers going down looking a lot different to captain Nemo,s day.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on May 30, 2014, 05:07:38 pm
Not exactly a rip-off, but how many times do you check your Supermarket bill with the actual prices shown on the shelf edge labels?

Twice now in one particular Supermarket in Penrhyn Bay, we have been asked for more at the check out than the prices shown on some of the labelling.  Fortunately we were only buying a few items and my mental arithmatic immediately picked up the error.  But had there been a whole trolley full of goods the error, and maybe a few more, could easily have slipped through.

As they say, Buyer Beware!   :D
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 30, 2014, 05:28:24 pm
Assuming this is the Co Op, they need lots of cash at the moment after the banking disaster!
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on May 30, 2014, 07:50:12 pm
Assuming this is the Co Op, they need lots of cash at the moment after the banking disaster!

It bit like giving you a divi with one hand and grabbing it back with the other!    >>>
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Blongb on May 31, 2014, 05:26:34 pm
Not exactly a rip-off, but how many times do you check your Supermarket bill with the actual prices shown on the shelf edge labels?


Its not just in Penrhyn Bay Yorkie; the "Wife and I went to Cromer on a day visit at the beginning of the month, whilst we were visiting Norfolk, called in to the local Budgens Supermarket. and bought 4 items. We were charged the wrong price for all 4 Items. 2 different soft drinks from the same shelf on the chiller counter, both marked any 2 for £1 but were charged at the individual price for each, a half bottle of Rum priced at £9:50 but sold for £12:50 and a marked down loaf of bread to feed the birds sold at full price. I did point out the error in there accounting procedures and got a full refund. Stay vigilant.
 
Title: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: Dave on September 09, 2014, 04:24:58 pm
I had an unexpected central heating repair last week, apparently the motorised valve needed replacing. The owner of the company popped in for 5 minutes as he was working just down the road and arranged for two of his men to attend and do the job a few days later. Involved draining the system , replacing the valve and releasing air blocks. Time taken 1 hour 50 minutes. Bill £310, which included a part that was apparently £110 although one can be bought much cheaper on line from what I can see. I presume one of the two workers was an apprentice... it certainly wasn't a two man job. Is £100 an hour a fair rate ? I don't think so and I won't be using him again.
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: cygnusx-1 on September 09, 2014, 08:35:20 pm
Why did they drain the system as the electrical actuator sits on the mechanical valve in the pipe work and comes off as a seperate part on my system? When your part failed did the heating or water still run as normal and would not switch off?

 
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: Dave on September 09, 2014, 09:37:17 pm
The hot water wasn't working independently and only worked in conjunction with the central heating after a lever was used to lock the valve open......... well that's the impression I got of the problem from what I was told.I was also told the motor had burnt out as the valve had run dry because of air in the system.
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: DaveR on September 10, 2014, 08:28:59 am
I'm no expert on central heating, but I've replaced the motorised valve that controls the flow of water to heating/hot water several times in the past. It really is a simple 10 minute job that doesn't even require the system to be shut down, let alone drained.
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: Dave on September 10, 2014, 08:38:21 am
Might be a good idea if we posted jobs done and the bill. Gives an idea of what you should pay. I had around an hours roofing repairs done for £60 which I was happy with as you wouldn't get me up on the roof .
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: Fester on September 10, 2014, 11:05:16 pm
Might be a good idea if we posted jobs done and the bill. Gives an idea of what you should pay. I had around an hours roofing repairs done for £60 which I was happy with as you wouldn't get me up on the roof .

Who did that work for you Dave?
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: DaveR on September 11, 2014, 08:44:48 am
Might be a good idea if we posted jobs done and the bill. Gives an idea of what you should pay. I had around an hours roofing repairs done for £60 which I was happy with as you wouldn't get me up on the roof .

Who did that work for you Dave?
Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Mr Fester?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Dave on September 11, 2014, 06:21:22 pm
What the hell, why not name him. John A Thomas.
When I queried the fact the original estimate had gone up from £250 to £310 he mentioned the part was £110 ( he originally said it was £85 but that should have worked out as a £275 shouldn't it ?)  I asked him how much he charged an hour for labour. He was very evasive and said they didn't work on hourly rates, rather charging by the job. This way he said I wasn't paying for workers sat in their vans drinking tea and reading the paper ! If that was the case then I should have certainly only been charged the amount of the increase in the part over and above the original quote.
He certainly keeps an eye on his workers though. They had to ring him when they arrived and ring him when they finished the job which is why I noticed the time they spent at our house. He appeared in person within five minutes to present the bill.
Wether or not the job was done correctly I don't know but I do know the hot water is working again so from that point I'm happy.
What I do know is he won't be called on by me in the future.
Pleased to see some more heating engineers have been added to the recommended tradesmen list, I shall try one of them !
Title: Re: Re: Recommended Tradesmen in the 3 Towns area
Post by: Fester on September 11, 2014, 10:39:57 pm
Might be a good idea if we posted jobs done and the bill. Gives an idea of what you should pay. I had around an hours roofing repairs done for £60 which I was happy with as you wouldn't get me up on the roof .

Who did that work for you Dave?
Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Mr Fester?

Obviously... and I was right as it turns out.

But, I was more interested in the bloke who did the roofing job.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Dave on September 12, 2014, 08:33:04 am
The one who was recommended on here !
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Hugo on September 12, 2014, 01:25:21 pm
I too had a bad experience with a local plumber a few years ago, but it was partly my fault and I'll make sure that it won't happen again.
It was a very bad Winter a few years ago and my boiler broke down.   We were waiting for a month for a very close relative to do the job but he let us down badly so we were desperate for it to be fixed as the weather was getting worse.
A friend recommended this plumber and said that he was good and his prices were reasonable so we instructed the plumber to go ahead with the job which was labour only BUT we didn't get an estimate from him beforehand.  His rates turned out to be about £65.00 per hour!    He was a one man business with no office or overheads and wasn't VAT registered either.
I won't name him online but I certainly do to my friends as I don't want them to fall into that same trap as I did.
When I had the boiler serviced for the first time by a very good firm called J W Jones & Co they condemned  the boiler as the flue hadn't been fixed properly.  The first plumber then had to return to fix the flue properly or else lose his plumbing certificate.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Fester on September 12, 2014, 09:34:36 pm
Dave..... I had a VERY lucky escape from the very same chap you mention.  It's a few years ago now though.
Some fantastic last minute advice came my way, in the nick of time.

Hugo, I'm sorry to hear your experience, and it's a shame you don't feel able to name them.

To all, be very careful that when you get a Plumber who purports to be Gas Safe,  ask them why they don't have the actual Gas Safe Registration number on the sticker on the van.   Some do,  some don't..... but when I check those who don't have it, they are mysteriously missing from the Gas Safe register. 



Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Hugo on September 12, 2014, 10:51:51 pm

Hugo, I'm sorry to hear your experience, and it's a shame you don't feel able to name them.


That was a very bad Winter and I will always remember your very kind offer to lend me a Halogen Heater to help keep my house warm.
Although I didn't take up your offer, your gesture was really appreciated.
The reason I don't want to name the person is that people have to make their own opinion on him and others, including the friend who recommended him must have been pleased with his services.    I do however mention it to anyone who asks me to recommend a plumber.
It was my own fault for not asking him for an estimate beforehand and I still feel a right charlie for not doing so.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on September 13, 2014, 07:52:24 am
Plumbers are notoriously thin on the ground, possibly because the costs involved in becoming certified to the 'gas safe' level are staggeringly high.  It's also curious that they seem to differ from most 'normal' tradesfolk as I can't remember meeting one who didn't know absolutely everything there was to know about every single aspect of plumbing. I do know one excellent chap, but he's been seriously ill for some months, although it's hoped he'll once again be in harness soon.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Ian on September 13, 2014, 08:12:55 am
Should I move that to the 'Recommended traders' topic ME?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 13, 2014, 08:25:42 am
Yes please Ian, just noticed it is in the Rip off Britain section, which of cause is wrong! Michael has around 13 recommendations on the Which Local Trader page! I am sure his ex apprentice will be excellent but as I haven't used his services yet I can't really recommend him yet? 
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Dave on September 13, 2014, 11:48:48 am
I think as long as all statements made are truthful and objective I think there is no harm in naming names. There are all sorts of people out there that will take advantage if they have the opportunity and there are also opportunities to save money for those who have been enlightened.
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: SDQ on September 13, 2014, 12:03:27 pm
I think as long as all statements made are truthful and objective I think there is no harm in naming names. There are all sorts of people out there that will take advantage if they have the opportunity and there are also opportunities to save money for those who have been enlightened.


BUT... there is always the possibility a bad experience is an isolated incident & is it fair to ruin a tradesman's otherwise decent reputation for one transgression?
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Yorkie on September 13, 2014, 12:55:41 pm


BUT... there is always the possibility a bad experience is an isolated incident & is it fair to ruin a tradesman's otherwise decent reputation for one transgression?

You are quite right SDQ, there needs to be a balance of opinion, good, bad and indifferent for judgements to be made.  What is needed is something like a Trip Advisor for businesses, if one is interested in other peoples experiences, that is.
 ZXZ
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Hugo on September 13, 2014, 02:25:17 pm
I think as long as all statements made are truthful and objective I think there is no harm in naming names. There are all sorts of people out there that will take advantage if they have the opportunity and there are also opportunities to save money for those who have been enlightened.


BUT... there is always the possibility a bad experience is an isolated incident & is it fair to ruin a tradesman's otherwise decent reputation for one transgression?

That's the way I have looked at it too and that's why I won't say who it is.     
Title: Re: Rip Off Britain
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 17, 2014, 05:42:27 pm
This happened down the road from us so be careful who you employ to do a job! The worse part for me was that he advertised on the back of the neighbourhood watch leaflet! 


 Hired because of his advert in a Neighbourhood Watch free-sheet, handyman Brian Severs smashed nearly every window in a bungalow when the quality of his work was questioned.

A “red mist” has descended on 50-year-old Severs of Gomer Court, Abergele, on July 9 his solicitor Elen Parry explained to magistrates on Monday, adding that he had symptoms of Asperger disorder.

He pleaded guilty to causing £8,163 damage at the bungalow, but the real cost came to more than £12,000, prosecutor Wyn Jones told Llandudno court because the owner had to be provided with somewhere else to live. Her insurers were now trying to recoup the cash from Severs, who was given a 16-week jail sentence, suspended for two years.

  &shake&

http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/137973/court-hears-how-abergele-handyman-smashed-nearly-every-window-in-a-bungalow.aspx (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/137973/court-hears-how-abergele-handyman-smashed-nearly-every-window-in-a-bungalow.aspx)