The expectations for the cost of installing a new water heater was not clear. On site for 2 hours and Rick charged 2 hours for drive time. Rick didn't have the proper tools and supplies with him, but he charged an extra 30 minutes for having to drive to buy common caps and to put together a tool to test electricity. He then charged, for his second trip out the full rate of $850 for removal and installation of the water heater he had already removed.
Rick does not consider driving time, which he neglected to tell me he was charging, a trip charge. He's proud to say he doesn't have trip charges. The 2 hours of drive time amounts to $180. Splitting hairs?
Plumbers deserve to be paid for a tough profession, they should also be held to high honorable business practices.
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