Would you pay $32k for a new aircon: SA tradie scam reports skyrocket

An Adelaide family have revealed the staggering amount they were quoted for a new aircon amid skyrocketing reports of tradie scams.

An Adelaide family says they were quoted an eye watering amount to replace their aircon unit only to find out it could be done elsewhere for a fraction of the cost.

Sean Hill said he was quoted $32,000 to replace his broken aircon unit in January after contacting Metropolitan Plumbing, which is being investigated for overcharging customers.

He is one of hundreds of South Australians that have been affected by tradies attempting to overcharge for goods and services, prompting the rollout of a new state government campaign to better protect customers from scams.

“It was the week before a very bad heatwave and my partner was at home with our toddler,” Mr Hill said.

“When they quoted us the cost of the brand new Corolla for our new airconditioning system, we were shocked and outraged.

“There was an assumption that we were just going to join their financing program and have it done right then and there because they were the ones that showed up first.

He ultimately declined their services and went with another company who got the job done for around $7000 – approximately $25,000 less than the original quote.

Metropolitan Plumbing is currently being investigated for shady practices. Picture: Tim Joy

“I’m so glad we didn’t just go with their quote,” he said.

“The pressure they put us under was awful, and it’s clear they rely on people feeling like it’s too urgent to shop around.

“No one should be ripped off like that.”

The state government’s new campaign, which aims to educate consumers on tradie red flags, comes after a “sharp spike” in complaints over the past few months.

It follows The Advertiser revealing several cases of customers being quoted exorbitant prices for airconditioners or hot water services from Metropolitan Plumbing.

Authorities are investigating whether there have been any consumer law breaches after having received more than 100 SA complaints accusing the business – known for its distinctive electric blue insignia – of ripping off customers.

“South Australians rely on plumbers, electricians and other tradespeople to do the right thing,” consumer and business affairs minister Andrea Michaels said.

“People should not be misled about the scope of the work that needs to be carried out or the cost of that work.

“That’s why we are launching a new campaign to make sure people know how they can take steps to protect themselves from being taken advantage of and red flags to look out for.”

She encouraged people to seek quotes from at least three different tradespeople and/or companies.

She also encouraged people to ask friends and family for recommendations, look at independent reviews, and check the tradie’s licence details before committing to any work.

Metropolitan Plumbing has been contacted for comment.

Originally published as Would you pay $32k for a new aircon: SA tradie scam reports skyrocket